Themes of second chances and rekindled romance are central to this story. Clarissa Ware, the Dowager Countess, seeks solitude at Ravenswood after presenting her daughter to society, only to find her past intertwined with Matthew Taylor, a former childhood friend turned carpenter. Both have faced life's expectations and losses, leading to a summer that reignites their connection. As their friendship evolves into a deeper romance, they confront the possibility of reshaping their futures together, embracing newfound passion and change.
Set against the backdrop of high society, Lady Jennifer, who is unable to walk due to a childhood illness, navigates her life with cheerfulness and a strong support system. Her secret desires for independence and romance come to light when she meets Ben Ellis, a resourceful man determined to help her achieve her dreams. As their friendship deepens, they face societal expectations and family disapproval due to Ben's status as a bastard son. Their journey explores themes of love, acceptance, and the pursuit of personal freedom.
The narrative chronicles Mary Jenkins's diverse life journey, starting from her childhood during the Second World War in England and spanning various professions, including policewoman and university lecturer. Significant moments include her evacuation to Wales and transformative educational opportunities provided by Gough Whitlam. Jenkins completed her PhD in Tasmania at seventy, enriched by experiences in France, Switzerland, and Sweden. Now residing in Tasmania, she reflects on her multifaceted life through her writing.
Love comes when you least expect it in this captivating new novel in the Westcott Regency romance series from New York Times bestselling author Mary Balogh. Lady Jessica Archer lost interest in the glittering excitement of romance after her cousin and dearest friend, Abigail, was rejected by the ton when her father was revealed to be a bigamist. Now that she is twenty-five, however, Jessica decides it is time to wed. Though she no longer believes she will find true love, she is still very eligible. She is, after all, the sister of Avery Archer, Duke of Netherby. Jessica considers the many qualified gentlemen who court her. But then she meets the mysterious Gabriel Thorne, who has returned to England from the New World to claim an equally mysterious inheritance. Jessica considers him completely unsuitable, especially when, while they are still barely acquainted, he announces his intention to wed her. When Jessica guesses who Gabriel really is, however, and watches the lengths to which he will go in order to protect those who rely upon him, she is drawn to his cause--and to the man.
