Part of the publisher's England's Living History series, this publication examines Georgian and Regency houses from the period covering 1714 to 1830. Author Yorke (artist and designer) divides the book into three sections. The first outlines the history of the period and the structures and describes the plans, materials, and constructions. The second examines the structures in detail, including chapters on fittings and decoration, reception and family rooms, service rooms, and yards and gardens. The final section is a reference guide with portions on dating houses, a time chart, suggested places to visit, and a glossary. This book is not academic in its scope but is intended for the more involved traveler of England, and includes numerous black-and-white illustrations including building levels and plans, photographs, and drawings. Distributed in North America by The David Brown Book Co. Annotation ©2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)