What he does not plan is to find prim schoolteacher Allison Silver on his doorstep, and he certainly does not plan to find himself guardian of her precocious pupil. Allison knows she must make her own way in the world. For that reason, her reputation is her most valuable asset. She can't afford to be seen with Jack, let alone live in his home, not even if she is caring for his ward. All she wants is a secure position and someday, a pension. After all, plain women such as she dare not dream of anything more.

Barbara Metzger is a delightful storyteller. She takes what should be a familiar story -a penniless governess on her own- and weaves a magical tale. To describe Allison Silver, the governess, as a traditional character, might have some truth. To describe the story as such, does not. There is nothing traditional about Captain Jack Endicott, second son of an earl, nor of Harriet, Miss Silver's high-spirited charge. These high-spirited characters, along with Ms. Metzger's fun writing style, make Jack of Clubs an absolutely charming read with some laugh out loud moments.