The Gentlemen of Christopher's Series by Kate Morrell

Six years earlier, tragedy changed the course of Robert Deverell's life. Now, another forces him to face up to the future and to promises he failed to keep. Six years earlier, Elizabeth Hamilton wasted her one season by falling hopelessly in love with Robert Deverell, then her life was blighted by loss and poverty. Now, she must marry or find a post as a governess. So when Mr Deverell himself offers her a marriage of convenience, upon his terms, she is dumbfounded... moreSix years earlier, tragedy changed the course of Robert Deverell's life. Now, another forces him to face up to the future and to promises he failed to keep. Six years earlier, Elizabeth Hamilton wasted her one season by falling hopelessly in love with Robert Deverell, then her life was blighted by loss and poverty. Now, she must marry or find a post as a governess. So when Mr Deverell himself offers her a marriage of convenience, upon his terms, she is dumbfounded. But when she realises that this cool stranger is no longer the tender, funny man she cannot forget, Lizzy has a few terms of her own. Both will need to surrender ground to rediscover the love they lost. But even as Lizzy finds that 'her Robert' may still be alive within the cold Mr Deverell, it seems that death still stalks her husband ... and perhaps even herself. Rich in historical detail and determined characters, this powerful romance will sweep you up into a love story and an adventure that you won't want to put down. Author's note: This sequel to The Reluctant Lady follows the stories of some of the friends introduced in that novel, but also stands alone as Regency read. For those familiar with The Reluctant Lady, you’ll discover what happened to Dev, Gil and Denny after they left for Newmarket, and see Charles and Harry return to support their friends. However, in places this is a rather darker novel than the first. So if you are looking for a light, frothy romance, this may not be the book for you. less

‘My husband will see me as his equal and his friend, or I will not barter my freedom for the splendid slavery of marriage!’ declared Lucy. ‘The what?’ choked Charles. Having run away on the coldest night in living memory, Lucy Hargrove is wondering if she will survive, when a dramatic event changes everything... more‘My husband will see me as his equal and his friend, or I will not barter my freedom for the splendid slavery of marriage!’ declared Lucy. ‘The what?’ choked Charles. Having run away on the coldest night in living memory, Lucy Hargrove is wondering if she will survive, when a dramatic event changes everything. An ardent devotee of A Vindication of the Rights of Woman, Lucy’s decided notions about marriage, do not include accepting the hand of a philandering peer for mere propriety - even a nonpareil such as Fatal Ventnor.Society’s darling, Charles should be relieved, but Lucy’s perspectives have undermined his perfect life. Then, as he finds new purpose and Lucy enters Society, the tables begin to turn. Both discover that it is not only their secret that connects and draws them together. But just as heaven is within reach, a different secret threatens everything. Steeped in rich historical detail of Regency London giddily celebrating the abdication of Napoleon and the end of decades of war with France, this deeply satisfying romance will sweep you into a world you won’t want to leave. less