The Heir (Ravenscar Series #2) Book

Who will rule this family’s empire?

The Deravenels: Their business empire is worth billions, their influence stretches across the globe. And Edward, the dashing and charismatic chosen son, is the king of his company at last. He has survived harrowing years of betrayal, threats from ruthless enemies, and countless lovers—his demanding wife among them. But the most dramatic event of Edward’s life is still to come…

THE HEIR

A worthy heir is needed to keep the Deravenel dynasty alive. But for this family, tragedy and death remain obstacles at every turn. Now Edward must navigate a dangerous collision course between his two brothers: the loyal, beloved Richard and his middle brother, George, an alcoholic bent on ruining Edward and his good name. Or he could pursue an entirely different option—one so desperate, and scandalous, that it would leave the world of the Deravenels forever changed….

“Rife with dastardly struggles, smoldering, illicit passion, and cowardly insidious betrayals…Fans of Bradford’s trademark brand of panoramic, multigenerational historical dramas will have plenty to sink their teeth into as the feuding Deravenels continue their rivalry.”—Booklist

Publishers Weekly

Bestseller Bradford (The Ravenscar Dynasty; Voice of the Heart) presents the serviceable second chapter in her Ravenscar trilogy, a dynastic epic spanning the 20th century. In 1918, 14 years after assuming control of the family company, 33-year-old Edward Deravenel has "built it into the greatest trading company in the world," with business interests ranging from French wine to Persian oil. Edward is also blessed with the sprawling Ravenscar estate and a son he hopes will eventually take the company helm. However, Edward has enemies on all sides, most notably his "treacherous" younger brother, George, and jealous wife Elizabeth. Even Edward's trusted youngest brother, Richard, may not be all he seems. A series of scandals threatens to ruin Edward's heirs' claim to the company, though much of the action feels muted. The plot gains much needed direction and momentum after Edward is felled by a heart attack, his two young sons disappear and the company's fate falls on the shoulders of his oldest daughter, Bess. The last third carries the book and makes up for the plodding earlier sections. This isn't one of Bradford's better books, but it should tide over her fans. (Nov.)