Although this is an abridged version of Heyer's work, British actor Richard Armitage makes this exceptionally fun to listen to. The only drawback is that listeners will be disappointed that he didn't read the full-length version. Armitage is perhaps best known for playing the most appealing John Thornton in the BBC production of Elizabeth Gaskell's North and South. He also played the dastardly Guy of Gisborne in Robin Hood, and, a spy in Spooks. Armitage's reading is warm, lively, simply brilliant. He easily voices all characters and regional and class differences with ease and captures the underlying tension and growing romantic interest between Phoebe and Sylvester. The period classical music between chapters adds wonderful, appropriate atmosphere.