This is one of Margaret Brownley's earlier stories that lacks, in my opinion, the characteristic humorous dialogue of her later books. However, it is a charming 1880 story about Amanda Blackwell, who has a cycling school in downtown New York City. Architect Damian Newcastle plans to build the city's first 20-story building and wants her property. She refuses to sell; after all, how would she support herself and her handicapped brother?
Damian and Amanda are attracted to each other until Amanda finds out that Damian's father is in prison for the collapse of the building in which Amanda's father died. To compound Amanda's difficulties, her uncle suddenly comes on the scene and wants to take her brother away from her. He thinks Donny belongs in an institution for special-needs children and has instituted a court case to bring that about.
Donny is fairly isolated until he meets Damian's son, who is wheelchair-bound. They form a close bond. The author has done considerable research to make NYC seem so real. The characters are entertaining and the story is absorbing.
Damian and Amanda are attracted to each other until Amanda finds out that Damian's father is in prison for the collapse of the building in which Amanda's father died. To compound Amanda's difficulties, her uncle suddenly comes on the scene and wants to take her brother away from her. He thinks Donny belongs in an institution for special-needs children and has instituted a court case to bring that about.
Donny is fairly isolated until he meets Damian's son, who is wheelchair-bound. They form a close bond. The author has done considerable research to make NYC seem so real. The characters are entertaining and the story is absorbing.
Great light reading, Excellent summer book.
