York in the last decade of the 19th century is the dramatic setting for his powerful novel. An international bestseller when first published, Louisa Elliott's timeless themes of love, desire and betrayal make it equally relevant today.Louisa and Edward Elliott are cousins tied by more than simple family affection. As the daughter of a family with secrets, Louisa feels bound to remain single and independent, while Edward, sensitive and poetic, loves her far more than he can admit, even to himself. But with the advent of Robert Duncannon, an Irish officer with the Royal Dragoons, their lives change completely. Outwardly dashing and hard-living, Robert has secrets of his own; and as Louisa falls passionately in love, Edward despairs for her future. While he takes up a different battle, Louisa finds she must choose between safety and respectability in York, and the uncertainty of life in Dublin with Robert, his family and friends. In both cities, here magically evoked, military pageantry marches side with poverty and wealth, while Louisa is inwardly torn by opposing forces. Having followed her heart, how will she deal with the consequences? A great, rich novel, peopled with characters you come to know intimately and care about deeply, Louisa Elliott will linger with you long after the final page has been turned.This is one of those novels that grabs the attention and doesn't let go... delightful from first page to last - New York City TribuneSettle in for non-stop reading... remarkable in size and scope... Roberts has done admirable research... Her descriptive talents shine. The characters come alive on the page... The best this genre has to offer - The Boston HeraldCompelling and thought-provoking reading, right to the very last page - Chicago Sun TimesAnn Victoria Roberts is an unusually gifted author - Daily MailA telling portrait of ordinary people struggling to make the best they can with the hand fate has dealt them - San Diego Union