Marstone Series by Jayne Davis

Is a man’s duty to his family or to the woman he loves?Albany, 1760Returning home from his post in the Colonies, Captain Jack Stanlake finds himself a reluctant escort for Mrs Harper and her two daughters. Over the course of the Atlantic voyage, he finds himself taken with Miss Clara Harper.Mrs Harper is set on finding husbands for her daughters—but that is not what Clara wants... moreIs a man’s duty to his family or to the woman he loves?Albany, 1760Returning home from his post in the Colonies, Captain Jack Stanlake finds himself a reluctant escort for Mrs Harper and her two daughters. Over the course of the Atlantic voyage, he finds himself taken with Miss Clara Harper.Mrs Harper is set on finding husbands for her daughters—but that is not what Clara wants. Doing the bidding of a husband does not appeal in the least; not when there is a world out there she wants to discover. But after spending time with Jack, her feelings on the matter change.There is, of course, a problem. Jack is the second son of the Earl of Marstone and Clara is a merchant’s niece. For one of his background, marrying into trade just isn’t done. Both must move on. Clara busies herself with her new life in London. Jack tries to push his feelings aside. But neither can forget the other.To Jack’s dismay, his brother has arranged a suitable marriage for him in his absence—one that will advance his family’s status and prestige. His duty to the family demands he accept this union, but he cannot dismiss Clara from his heart and mind. Will he refuse his duty and marry for love?A Question of Duty is a prequel novella to the Marstone Series, taking place seventeen years before Sauce for the Gander (Book 1). While it’s perfect for fans of the series, it can also be read as a standalone story. less

A novella sequel to Sauce For The Gander, distributed free to mailing list subscribers.

Molly Simons can’t wait to see the world beyond Marstone Park, hoping for excitement and even romance. But is she ready for what she will find?As maid to Lady Isabella, the youngest daughter of the Earl of Marstone, a trip to London feels like an adventure to Molly. Footman Jem Langton will be going too. He’s a favourite of hers, but unfortunately he doesn’t seem to return her feelings... moreMolly Simons can’t wait to see the world beyond Marstone Park, hoping for excitement and even romance. But is she ready for what she will find?As maid to Lady Isabella, the youngest daughter of the Earl of Marstone, a trip to London feels like an adventure to Molly. Footman Jem Langton will be going too. He’s a favourite of hers, but unfortunately he doesn’t seem to return her feelings.Molly and Jem have to work together to help Lady Isabella find a husband she truly desires, rather than be forced into a match of her father’s choosing. A misunderstanding spoils Molly’s pleasure in being with Jem, and Lady Isabella’s kind heart leads them all into trouble. Soon, Molly and Jem find their positions and future at risk.Amongst the chaos, is there a chance for the two to finally understand each other and find love?Molly’s Tale can be read as a standalone romance. However it is a parallel story to A Suitable Match (Book 2 of the Marstone Series) and is probably more enjoyable if you have already read that book. Expect to see a few familiar faces and get a further glimpse into the happenings during and just after A Suitable Match. less

France 1793Phoebe's future holds little more than the prospect of a tedious season of balls and routs, forever in the shadow of her glamorous cousin and under the critical eye of her shrewish aunt. She yearns for a useful life, and a love match like her parents', if such a thing could ever be possible for an unwanted, poor relation.But first she has to endure the hazards of a return home through revolutionary France -- a nation suddenly at war with the English... moreFrance 1793Phoebe's future holds little more than the prospect of a tedious season of balls and routs, forever in the shadow of her glamorous cousin and under the critical eye of her shrewish aunt. She yearns for a useful life, and a love match like her parents', if such a thing could ever be possible for an unwanted, poor relation.But first she has to endure the hazards of a return home through revolutionary France -- a nation suddenly at war with the English. Her aunt's imperious insensitivity soon arouses a suspicion that quickly develops into mortal danger. Can a stranger encountered on the road prove to be their unlikely salvation?Alex uses many names, and is used to working alone. A small act of kindness leads him to assist Phoebe's party, even though it might come at the expense of his own, vital mission in France. Ignoring his own peril, he is willing to risk all in the hope of getting them safely back to England. Unexpectedly, as he and Phoebe face many dangers together, he finds his affections growing towards the resourceful and quick-witted red-head, despite their hopeless social differences.Even if they escape France alive, many troubles may still lie ahead.Playing with Fire is Book 3 in the Marstone series, but can also be read as a standalone novel with no cliffhangers. less

He’s looking for a suitable wife. She’s looking for a traitor. It could be a most unusual courtship.England, 1794James, Marquess of Harlford, wants nothing more than to be left alone with his scientific research. Unfortunately his mother is determined to see him married and with an heir to secure the succession. Faced with a house party of her selected candidates, he finds himself drawn towards the least likely─and most thoroughly unsuitable─of the guests. Mama will be livid... moreHe’s looking for a suitable wife. She’s looking for a traitor. It could be a most unusual courtship.England, 1794James, Marquess of Harlford, wants nothing more than to be left alone with his scientific research. Unfortunately his mother is determined to see him married and with an heir to secure the succession. Faced with a house party of her selected candidates, he finds himself drawn towards the least likely─and most thoroughly unsuitable─of the guests. Mama will be livid.While the other ladies are fluttering their eyelashes, Alice Bryant is sensible, kind and intelligent. Although he knows little else about her, James decides that Alice would do nicely as his wife.For Alice, an out-of-work governess, taking up a position as a lady's companion would be ideal—if that was all the post entailed. Espionage, no matter how righteous the cause, sits ill on her conscience.Alice does not wish to believe that the seemingly honourable and increasingly attentive Lord Harlford is capable of treason, but it’s her duty to find out if he really is selling secrets to the enemy.They could make an ideal match… if not for the espionage. Can love prosper, or will deceit and subterfuge carry the day?The Fourth Marchioness is Book 4 in the Marstone Series, but can also be read as a standalone novel with no cliffhangers. less