The Goldsmith’s Wife by Anita Seymour

I found this an easy read, a family drama set in the late 17^th century. The lady of the title is Helena, whose husband, Guy Palmer, sets up a mistress – a not-uncommon practice of gentlemen of that era. When she finds out, Helena, who is already strongly attracted to William, indulges in an affair. Helena’s relationship with the two men provides the trunk of the story, but there are many branches to hold the reader’s interest all the way through. The characters are all likeable and believable. In fact, it wasn’t until I had finished the book that I realised what was lacking: an antagonist. Did it spoil the story? Not at all.

I only wish I had read the first book of the series first. That would have helped me get a grip on a crowded list of characters, as well as explaining why space was given to characters who had no role to play. (Holdovers from the first book, I suspect.)

Recommended as a light read.

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