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Tessa Seaton has an uncanny ability with horses. Even horses that are poorly trained perform beautifully for her. Her father, Sir George Seaton, has suffered an injury from a fall while hunting. Since then, he has been in a wheelchair. Tessa was told that he has a weak heart, and not to disturb him or upset him because it could be fatal. She reluctantly goes along with her uncle, Mercer Emery, and cousin, Harold Emery by riding the horses when they are for sale. They have convinced her that the estate is nearly bankrupt and if they don’t sell the horses, her father could lose his home. Her skill as a rider and her connection with them leads arrogant high born men to buy the horses as they can’t believe that a chit of a girl could be better with horses than they are.
Lord Anthony Northrup purchases one such horse from a young gentleman who is obviously unable to handle it. He meets Tessa on the road when Zephyr shies and becomes out of control. Tessa calms the horse, and Anthony gets an incorrect impression of her because she was riding out alone in the evening. Anthony decides to learn about the Seaton stables, and brings several friends along. Anthony hates to see anyone cheated and believes that there is something underhanded about the sales.
From this place of suspicion and mistrust blooms a beautiful love story. Tessa is in a difficult position. Her fear for her father leads her to do things she is uncomfortable with. When she tries to take a stand against her uncle and cousin, they react quite negatively. In addition, the pressure from Lord Anthony leaves her anxious. His insistence on taking her father out of the home for visits and to watch a fox hunt infuriates her. She is unable to persuade either that it’s dangerous for Sir George’s health. The addition of an old acquaintance, Lady Killerby encourages more outings.
When Anthony compromises Tessa, she assures him marriage is not necessary. Her cousin Harold, on the other hand, sees a perfect opportunity to force her into marriage with him. He doesn’t hesitate to lie to gain his goal.
Taming Tessa is an interesting look at horse breeding and training. Brenda Hiatt seems knowledgeable about the subject and shares it with her readers. Tessa is a young woman with many burdens, and few choices at first. Anthony is dream worthy, a true gentleman, as well as a good friend. If historical romances are your cup of tea, you will likely fall in love with this book.
Reviewed by Nancy Riggins-Hume
for The Road to Romance
January 20, 2005
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