These Old Shades by Georgette Heyer

“These Old Shades” is a historical romance novel written by Georgette Heyer, a prolific British author known for her Regency and Georgian era novels. The book was first published in 1926 and is one of Heyer’s early works.

Set in the mid-18th century, the story revolves around the enigmatic and powerful Duke of Avon, Justin Alastair. He is a wealthy and influential nobleman known for his cunning and charm. The Duke encounters a young boy named Léon, who is being mistreated and abused. Intrigued by the boy’s striking looks, the Duke decides to rescue him from his abusive situation and takes him under his wing.

The Duke raises Léon as his protégé, but Léon’s true identity and past remain a mystery. As Léon grows up, the Duke starts to realize that there is more to Léon than meets the eye. A series of events unfold, including a masquerade ball, mistaken identities, and romantic entanglements.

The plot becomes even more complicated when the Duke meets Léon’s sister, Léonie, who is a spirited and unconventional young woman. The Duke finds himself drawn to her, but as secrets from the past come to light, the relationships between the characters are tested.

“These Old Shades” is known for its engaging and witty dialogue, vivid historical setting, and well-drawn characters. Georgette Heyer was praised for her meticulous research into the Regency and Georgian periods, and her novels are often regarded as some of the finest examples of historical romance in literature.

Heyer’s works have remained popular over the years, and she is considered one of the founders of the Regency romance genre. “These Old Shades” is a beloved classic that continues to enchant readers who appreciate historical romance and well-crafted storytelling.