The Redemption of Philip Thane

Philip Thane is a rake.

With connections to illustrious families, he has cut a swathe through the ladies of the Ton. Persuing his lustful progress in Europe, gets him shot by a jealous husband.

Not only is he a rake, he is a scoundrel, a self centered dandy and massively in debt.

A trip to Somerset, to touch an elderly relative for cash meets more resistance than expected. Mrs. Henrietta Penhallow knows exactly what kind of man Philip is.
She offers some financial assistance, if he travels to Whittlesey to deliver a speech, related to a project she sponsored.

On the way to Whittlesey, he is persuaded to give a lift to Miss Margaret Allen and her companions.
Miss Allen is studying folk rituals and is interested in Plough Day at Whittlesey.

On Plough Day, Philip is rude, flippant and gives a dreadful speech. His behaviour for the rest of the day impresses no-one, especially Margaret Allen.
When they leave the coach gets stuck in snow and has to turn back.

Next morning Philip is shocked to find that it is Plough Day again.
Philip lives through the same day so many times that he loses count. At first he is upset, then he gets reckless. He lusts after Margaret and ingratiates himself in order to seduce. Numerous attempts fail.

The endless Plough Days lead to melancholy and despair. After that, the only way is up.
He re-evaluates his life. He comes to appreciate Margaret's mind as well as her body.

With Margaret's help he realises that the curse of Plough Day, is also a gift of time. So he spends weeks in the library studying.

But will he escape Plough Day and will he win Margaret's heart?

It is an enjoyable story of redemption and love. However, it's not really Regency England. Too many Americanisms and total disregard for propriety.

I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.