Tag: Regency romance Page 1 of 40

A Lady Plants a Facer!

On November 6, 2024

Dear Readers,

It seems there was a bit more “punch” by the punch bowl last night at Almack’s. One particular debutante, Lady A, arrived with her handsome chaperon brother, Lord P, for an evening of dancing. Lord P made an exit, leaving poor Lady A on her own. An unnamed patroness stepped in to find her a dance partner. The eminent Lord F offered his services and seemed to enjoy himself, fetching refreshment for the lady after the set.

From the murmurings of those who witnessed the event, Lord F approached Lady A from the rear. The aggressive debutante turned around swinging, her fist planting a facer on the poor man. A shout of “lecherous lickpenny” echoed through the ballroom, followed by Lord F’s nose flowing like the Great Fountain at Hampton Court.

The lady pugilist defended herself, saying she was pinched, beseeching the crowd to defend her. Of course, no proper gentleman or lady came to her aid after such an altercation except her tardy chaperon. Lord P promptly threatened Lord F with finishing the job, then collected his swooning sister in his arms. It was quite a dramatic exit—for the evening and possibly the Season.

Lord F’s nose will heal, though it may be a bit… flattened. But can we say the same for Lady A’s reputation? Only time will tell…

Find out how Lady A fares after her horrendous debut Season. Will the punch bowl be her legacy? Or will she find love beyond the glitter of London?

A Wallflower’s Wassail Punch by Aubrey Wynne

Lady Annette’s first Season was a disaster after a duke’s son pinched her by the punchbowl, and she walloped him in the nose. And broke it. After five years, she has yet to live down the scandal.

Lord Weston has been a widow for twenty years, his daughter is finally betrothed, and he is ready to take another wife. At a country party, the viscount discovers a striking, intelligent woman, with a dry wit only he seems to appreciate.

When the two become allies, their partnership soon goes beyond friendship. But will Lady Annette’s age and the viscount’s interfering daughter keep them from a happy ending under the mistletoe?

https://books2read.com/wallflowerswassailpunch

Excerpt:

Annette hovered by a gilded column on the edge of the ballroom. The newly installed gas lights of the elaborately cut chandeliers glittered with an unnatural brilliance. At the far end of the room, the musicians were seated on the balcony and just ending the last strains of a dance. She turned to see herself in one of the mirrors lining the walls at various points. Smoothing her plain dark-brown hair and tucking in a loose strand at her neck, she inspected her dress. It was pomona silk, one of her favorites. It had tiny red flowers embroidered along the cuff of her short sleeves and the hem, and the color made her green eyes seem brighter.

Lady Jersey joined her, pulling Annette’s hand through her arm. The woman had made it her mission to find the “poor motherless waif” a husband this Season. “Are you quite ready?”

“Yes, ma’am.” Annette followed the countess to a group of debutantes and young gentlemen. She knew all of them at least by name. No! Lady Jersey wouldn’t possibly introduce her to—

“Lady Annette, have you met Lord Frederick?” She curtsied and then extended her hand.

“I understand you are in need of a partner for the next dance?” asked the short blond, rubbing his weak chin. His pale blue eyes never reached her eyes, remaining on her square neckline. Though he wasn’t a handsome man, it was his personality that made him unattractive.

“If the request is out of pity, please don’t feel obligated,” she said, trying not to wrinkle her skirt as her hands fisted at her sides. “I won’t be disappointed to miss a dance.”

“A dance? I hadn’t thought you’d been asked at all this evening.” He smirked. “My mother said I need to be more charitable, so you’ll be helping me out.” He held out his arm.

She laid her fingers on his sleeve, knowing it would be an insult to Lady Jersey if she refused. “Then you owe me a favor.”

He laughed, showing a mouthful of crooked teeth. “I may not be the best-looking in the room, but I’m the only man brave enough to risk your brothers’ wrath. I shall be the hero at my club tonight.”

Annette rolled her eyes as they joined the line of dancers, then pasted on a smile. She couldn’t be seen as shrewish. She’d never find a husband. And she wanted a family of her own desperately. As Lord Frederick bowed to her curtsy and the dance commenced, she also realized she wasn’t that desperate yet.

At one point, as she and Lord Frederick touched palms and made a turn, he licked his lips, staring at her bosoms. The gleam of the chandeliers shone on his thick mouth. The man had no idea how unappealing he was. Some woman will have to kiss him, she thought in disgust, and pretend to enjoy it. That image almost sent her into giggles.

The quadrille finally ended, and Annette thought to escape, but his hand caught her arm. “Shall I escort you for a refreshment? It seems I’ve put quite the blush onto your cheeks,” he murmured in her ear.

Annette’s mouth opened with a quick retort, then closed. It wouldn’t help to end the Season insulting this man or causing a scene. She clenched her hand to keep from wiping his moist breath off her neck. Peering at the dais where the patronesses sat, she saw Lady Jersey smile at her encouragingly. “Yes, my lord, that would be lovely.”

“I knew I’d break through that ice,” he said with a waggle of his brows. His hand was a bit too heavy on her lower back as he guided her through the crowd. He fetched her a cup of ratafia.

“Thank you, I’m parched,” she said, sipping the punch. Each time Lord Frederick tried to lean in close, she took another drink to keep him at bay. Which meant the drink quickly disappeared.

“I’ll get you another,” he said with a chuckle. “Did you like it?”

“It has a different taste but not in a bad way,” she said, handing him the empty glass.

“I gave it a splash of rum,” he said in her ear, then turned away.

Her cheeks burned with the knowledge that she’d just imbibed at Almack’s. How dare he do such a thing without her permission. She looked about the crowd for Lucius, her ire growing when she couldn’t find him. It was nearly eleven, and he promised to bring her to supper. She could not stomach dining with Lord Frederick. Either he, the alcohol, or both had ruined her appetite. Although she didn’t mind the lightness in her head or the looseness of her limbs. The rum seemed to have a pleasant numbing effect.

Then she spied her brother’s golden-brown head, and he waved his hand in greeting. He’d made it. Oh, thank the heavens. A warm breath hit the back of her neck, and then a sharp pain pinched her backside. She blinked, her mind a bit fuzzy. Had someone just—

It happened it again, and she pivoted on her heel, swinging with all her might. Just as her brothers had taught her.

Crunch. Hard bone met her gloved fist. A wave of satisfaction roared through Annette, and a smug grin turned her lips. And then chaos ensued.

There was a loud collective gasp, then loud cries and shouts for help.

“Lord Greggson has been attacked!”

“Did Lady Annette plant him a facer?”

“She never did act a proper lady.”

“Between her brothers and that right hook, she’s doomed now.”

The remarks echoed in her head like a swarm of bees.

“What the devil did you do that for?” screamed Lord Frederick. He held his hand to his nose, trying to staunch the flow of blood. “You broke my bloody nose, you trollop.”

About the Author

USA Today Bestselling author Aubrey Wynne resides in the Midwest with her husband, dogs, horses, mule, and barn cats. Obsessions include wine, history, travel, trail riding, and all things Christmas. Her Chicago Christmas series and historical romances have received multiple awards and nominations as a Rone finalist by InD’tale Magazine.

Aubrey’s first love is medieval romance but after dipping her toe in the Regency period in 2018 with the Wicked Earls’ Club, she was smitten. This inspired her sweet Regency spin-off series Once Upon a Widow, and a steamy Scottish Regency series, A MacNaughton Castle Romance. Her Regency detective series, Paddy’s Peelers, will launch in 2025.

Website:

http://www.aubreywynne.com

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/magnificentvalor
Newsletter:

https://www.subscribepage.com/k3f1z5

A Destitute Lady and a Bouncing Bounder?

By Alina K. Field

On October 23, 2024

In Teatime Tattler

A Reader’s Report

Dearest Readers,

A most interesting letter has been given to us, with permission to publish here. Of course we have protected the particulars of the individuals involved, but those familiar with the ton might recognize the parties.

Cannot young men be faithful?! Young ladies, beware.

My dearest M,

What scandal has come upon us since you quitted Town, and I have had no one to gossip with excepting poor C, who is too caught up in her recent engagement to give the matter any proper attention!

What do you think has happened? Miss S–you recall, the odiously pretty one who captivated Lord W at Lady Foxham’s ball–has fled Town in disgrace! Oh, not for the reasons you doubtless infer. Lord W has not compromised her, neither did he seem anxious to do so. No, it was all due to her father, Mr. S, who fled, and carried her and her poor, ailing Mama with him!

I do not know the particulars–and it is infinitely too vexing, for I cannot find it out from anybody–but Mr. S is said to have lost all his fortune–to have been made entirely destitute–by some unfortunate business dealings, and the other party involved has vanished–probably to the Continent–to spend his ill-got gains. Being unable to continue in London–indeed, being unable to lift up their heads for the shame–the S family have all gone away, and I doubt they shall be heard of again.

Of course I pity poor Miss S, and hope with all my heart she is able to find some country squire who will take her without a penny to her name. Lord W, for his part, has not seemed to mourn her going, and complimented me very prettily on my gown at Mrs. P’s rout–the peach sarsenet with the gold gauze? I think I will wear my blue silk to the Humphries’ ball Tuesday next, for I believe he shall be there. If only I could see you there as well, my dear!

Yours affectionately,

A Winter’s Romance: A Regency Anthology

Universal preorder link: https://mybook.to/WinterRomance

Discover just what has happened to Miss Stowe in one of the six delightful stories in this anthology full of sweet and satisfying romance, sure to warm your heart this winter season!

A Worthy Alteration, by Judith Hale Everett

Lord Windon can’t seem to see past a pretty face. He hops from one lovely female to the next, never settling down, until he meets a young lady from his past–Miss Prudence Stowe, whose circumstances have drastically altered–for the worse. Unable to reconcile her loveliness with the degradations of her present situation, Lord Windon is forced to consider his feelings, and gradually begins to realize that perhaps beauty isn’t only skin deep.

About the author:

Judith Hale Everett is one of seven sisters, and grew up surrounded by romance novels. Georgette Heyer and Jane Austen were staples, and formed the groundwork for her lifelong love affair with the Regency. Add to that her obsession with the English language and you’ve got one hopelessly literate romantic.

She is the author of the Branwell Chronicles series, found everywhere books are sold. Follow her on:

https://Facebook.com/JudithHaleEverett

https://Instagram.com/judithhaleeverett

https://judithhaleeverett.com

A Viscount Vanishes

By Alina K. Field

On October 9, 2024

In Teatime Tattler

An Eligible Viscount has Vanished from Town

Dear Reader,

This esteemed periodical has learned that the loveable rake about town, the much reported Viscount H, had to hurry home. There is some talk of his parents being taken advantage of in some way, and he felt obliged to save them from their folly. With all that the family has suffered, it is no wonder our delicious viscount is concerned.

We are intrigued to know exactly what has prompted the normally devil-may-care Viscount to withdraw from the season. It seems almost responsible behaviour on his part, which is a shock in itself.

The debutantes are distraught that such an eligible bachelor has left town, a double pity when he is one of the handsome ones and as yet has not secured a match. I am sure it is not unreasonable to say that this season has not offered the debutantes the best of choice with some of the young (and old) gentlemen looking for a wife. Perhaps one or two may shine now Viscount H is no longer the centre of attention? We can always hope.

As eager as we are to find out what has caused his hasty departure, do not worry dear reader, there is still enough scandal to fill our pages, even without Viscount H amongst us. We have appreciated all he has provided us with to keep us amused, but there is always someone determined to be the talk of the town.

We doubt that anyone will get the better of Viscount H and wish him well on his quest, but assure you that the moment we hear more, we will report every detail.

A Winter’s Romance: A Regency Anthology

From runaway ladies and reformed rakes to not-so-resigned spinsters and harassed heirs, there is something for everyone in this collection of delightful stories by GL Robinson, Christina Dudley, Jayne Davis, Judith Hale Everett, Penny Hampson, and Audrey Harrison.

The Viscount’s Christmas Runaway by Audrey Harrison

A young lady’s flight from a horrific marriage proposal forces her to a life on the London streets, but the kindness of a stranger may lead her to a happily ever after.

Extract

That night, Louisa could not sleep after the conversations with Lord and Lady Hindley. She climbed out of the bed she shared with Rosie and curled up on the chair in front of the fire, her mind full.

On hearing a sound from downstairs, she stiffened. It was late, so why would anyone be up at this time? She remained still until the fear that had made her escape from home drove her to her feet. She might only be in her nightclothes, but she could hide if needed.

Creeping out of the room, she peeped over the banister and was surprised to see a young man hugging a dishevelled footman. Her curiosity had her remaining in place rather than withdrawing.

“Stanley, you are a diamond,” the young man said, releasing the footman but slapping him on the back. “Or can only women be diamonds? I’m sure I do not know, but whatever it is, you, my good man, are it.”

“Thank you, my lord.”

“I have to get to bed before Father realises I am here. Don’t need a lecture to spoil tonight. I have been introduced to a new gaming hell, and even better, it is just round the corner! I can stay here and be the prodigal son.”

“Let me help you upstairs, my lord.”

“No, you are a ruby among men for opening the door, I am able to walk upstairs. Now shh, we don’t want to wake the parents.”

Louisa could only smile at the antics of the viscount. She should have been disgusted, knowing his reputation, but instead felt nothing but amusement. His actions were endearing; he was very handsome and well-dressed, but he was obviously in his cups and looked smilingly relaxed as a result. His words were slightly slurred, but he was very cheerful, and never having seen the good humour of a foxed individual, she could not help but see the funny side of the situation.

She watched him with the same concern as the footman who was following him upstairs. It was a case of one step forward and two back, but eventually he safely reached the top stair. Louisa suddenly recalled herself and moved to return to her bedchamber, but her action caught his attention.

“Hallo! Who is this?” Miles asked as he tried to bring her into focus. At Louisa’s silence, he smiled. “You must be a nymph and a beautiful one at that.”

Louisa was mortified that Miles’s first sight of her was in her nightclothes, not to mention the footman, who still hovered in the background.

Miles took a couple of steps towards Louisa, who remained frozen to the spot. “You really are a sight to behold. Would you allow me to introduce myself?” He bowed deeply. “Oh dear, I seem to have forgotten who I am.”

Louisa could not help giggling at the befuddled expression on his face, but at her reaction, he grinned at her.

“Ah, I have made you smile, my fair one. Please know that I am a wastrel and a cad, but I would very much like to kiss you.”

Louisa took a step back, but thankfully the footman intervened. “My lord, your chamber is this way.”

“Do you know Stanley?” Miles asked Louisa without waiting for a response. “He is an emerald among men. Right you are, Stanley, lead the way.” Turning away from her, Miles looked back over his shoulder. “I will be dreaming of you, my sweet nymph.”

The moment Miles had gone, Louisa dashed into her bedchamber, closing and locking the door. She should have retreated when she first saw that the late visitor was no threat to her, but she had been attracted to a handsome face and teasing nature. Now her cheeks burned to think what he would remember in the morning. Her mortification did not dampen the stirring she felt at being flirted with for the first time. It was a strange but enjoyable sensation. Climbing back into bed, she knew without doubt that she would fall asleep with a smile on her face.

About the Author, Audrey Harrison

Hello, thank you for having me. I am an English writer of Regency romance from the North West of England. I live halfway between Liverpool and Manchester, in a very working class town called Wigan. I’ve been indie publishing since 2011, it started because traditional publishers told me that there was no market for Regency romance! I am married with two grown-up children and two gorgeous grandchildren, plus a mad foster dog (hoping to adopt her) and two granddogs. Life is usually chaotic, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

A shy child, I lost myself in books. They gave me the friends and adventures I needed and I have never stopped reading. I would write stories as a child, resulting in my first novel when I was sixteen, but life, family, and mortgages meant that I had no opportunity to follow that path. I think I wouldn’t have appreciated it as much if I had been younger, whereas now I feel very privileged to be able to follow my dream.

I’ve always wanted to write, but people from a working class background don’t become authors. I worked in the public sector and then a hospital stay and the chance at voluntary redundancy was the prod that I needed. It took a few more years before I published because I had no idea about ebooks, but I have never regretted a day of taking the risk and indie publishing. I would love to achieve more, write more and build my readership. I love what I do but I never take it for granted and am always humbled that readers enjoy my stories.

I have nearly forty Regency romances available on ebook or paperback. This venture of being part of an anthology is something new and exciting to me. I will always suffer from imposter syndrome, but the chance to work with five other talented authors was too tempting an opportunity to miss. I love that the stories are all based around winter, the perfect time for snuggling down with a nice book!

Find me:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AudreyHarrisonAuthor/

Website: https://www.audreyharrison.co.uk/about/

Young Men, Beware Scheming Ladies!

By Alina K. Field

On September 25, 2024

In Teatime Tattler

Romance in the Snow

Dear Reader,

We have another most interesting report of a romantic liaisons to share with you.

It has come to the notice of the Teatime Tattler that a certain Miss A, a young woman—I hesitate to say ‘lady’—in her third season has at last managed to obtain a spouse, and one with a future title, at that. Or, at least, she has extracted the promise of one, as the deed is not yet done. Mr P may yet manage to extricate himself from the situation, for it appears that some subterfuge was involved by the young lady in bringing herself to his notice.

A certain Lady F informs me that the young woman was aided by the recent heavy snowfall, which incarcerated such members of the house party who had already arrived for some days longer than they expected to remain. That was not the only benefit to her schemes, however, for she managed not once, but twice, to fall in the snow when Mr P was nearby, and took advantage of his gentlemanly actions in assisting her. Surely two such falls cannot be accidental?

Will the young man escape the toils of the schemer? Time will tell, but be sure that the Teatime Tattler will report on any developments.

A Winter’s Romance: A Regency Anthology

Jayne Davis is pleased to present her short story, Advice to Young Ladies, which will be part of an anthology including stories by Penny Hampson, Christina Dudley, Judith Hale Everett, Audrey Harrison, and GL Robinson.

Advice to Young Ladies

Ben Paynton is in no hurry to find a spouse. Neither is Kate Ardley, but she accompanies her stepmother and sister to Lady Paynton’s house party. When snow prevents most of the male guests arriving, Ben is thrown into the company of the young women his mother has invited rather more than he had planned, and begins to think that Kate might be someone he could spend the rest of his life with. Then an unexpected discovery shows Kate in a very different light.

Extract

Kate chose a vantage point from which to make her sketch. She wouldn’t have much time to draw before her fingers froze, but she relished the challenge of depicting this mostly white, snow-covered landscape. Her spot chosen, she took a step away from the cleared path and unfastened her satchel.

Absorbed in the drawing taking shape on her paper, Kate didn’t hear the quiet crunching of approaching footsteps on the path.

“Good morning, Miss Ardley.”

Startled, Kate turned to face Mr Paynton and took a step back. A step into snow that gave way beneath her foot. Her sketchbook, pencil, and the contents of the satchel all went flying as she waved her arms in an attempt to keep her balance, but to no avail. She fell, landing on her back in deep snow, seeing only sky above her. Snow found its way inside the neck of her pelisse and soaked through her stockings and boots, making her shiver. She struggled to sit up—not easy with her legs stuck in the snow.

“Are you hurt?” Mr Paynton gazed down at her.

“No.” No thanks to him. She managed to roll over and pushed herself to her feet, soaking her hands and arms in the process.

“I’m sorry I startled you. Take my hand.”

She reached up; his grip was firm, and she gasped as he hauled her effortlessly to his own level, then put a hand in the small of her back to steady her as she staggered towards the cleared path. “Thank you, sir.”

He gingerly stepped down into the hole she had made in the snow, and handed her satchel up to her. “Allow me to escort you back to the house.”

“No need, thank you, sir.” She had no wish to prolong the embarrassing encounter. Looking on the bright side of things, her undignified fall must have killed any interest he might have had in her, so she had no need to worry about that. Unfortunately, that thought did little to cheer her.

About the Author

Jayne Davis was hooked on Georgette Heyer and Jane Austen from her teens, and always wanted to be a writer, but it was several decades and several careers before she self-published her first Regency Romance. Now she has 14 romances published, all set in the Regency or Georgian Eras, and has also co-authored Writing Regency England to help other authors with their own writing.

Author Links

Website: https://www.jaynedavisromance.co.uk/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaynedavisromance/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17587608.Jayne_Davis

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/jaynedavis142/

Was a Proverbial “Beast” Importuning a Charming Beauty?

By Alina K. Field

On September 18, 2024

In Teatime Tattler

A Shocking Tale out of Bath

Dear Readers,

In our quest to provide you with the latest on dits, we have recently obtained a copy of a correspondence from two ladies with some interesting information from Bath. Read on!

Dear Felicity,

I hope you continue well and that your recent visit here to take the waters has proved beneficial. I did so enjoy being able to share with you the delights of this pleasant town and hope that your good health continues.

Now, do you recall Molland’s, the charming pastry shop we visited on Milsom Street, the one with the delicious pastries? I’m sure you do, we both rather indulged ourselves, if I recall.

Anyway, that is by the by. Feeling the need for some sustenance, I made another visit to Molland’s only the other day. As you know, I am not one for gossip, but I must tell you what I observed.

I took my usual seat near the window as it gives one a wonderful view of the passers-by. I ordered a pot of tea and a Bath bun, to which as you know, I am very partial. I’d barely poured the first cup when a most imposing gentleman came in. I say imposing, he was very tall and what I could see of his face at that point, for it was obscured by a hat pulled down low, was rather dark complexioned. My guess is he had recently returned from overseas.

The gentleman then took himself to the darkest corner of the shop; I could only view him by contorting my neck to such an extreme that I quite thought I’d do myself a mischief.

But what a sight! I very near had to resort to my vinaigrette, such was the horror of his visage. So badly scarred that it was not fit to be seen by any female with pretensions to sensibility.

Thank goodness, I have a strong constitution, so the enjoyment of my Bath bun was not curtailed.

Some time later, the gentleman left (I thought it wise to remain and observe which direction he should take before I myself departed). Having crossed the road, he seemed about to enter Earl’s Emporium. What should happen, but he collided with a young woman, almost knocking her over. She appeared a respectable young woman, dressed plainly, not the showy sort at all.

Now, I cannot say for certain that this collision was deliberate, but the following events would seem to suppose that it was. He took her by the arm, and after a short discussion, he led her into the shop. Now, my dear, what do you think? Had he importuned an innocent young lady? I cannot sleep for thinking about it. Should I have abandoned my tea and bun to forestall what I am sure will be the ruination of an innocent young lady?

I’m afraid that I do not know the outcome of this event as I was forced to leave Molland’s shortly after – any longer, and it would have been necessary to order another pot of tea, which was beyond my pecuniary means.

Yours ever,

Cassandra

A Winter’s Romance: A Regency Anthology

Penny Hampson, Audrey Harrison, Christina Dudley, GL Robinson, Jayne Davis, and Judith Hale Everett are pleased to present a collection of short stories perfect for warming you up this winter! A Christmas Wish, by Penny Hampson, will be of interest to anyone reading Cassandra Cavendish’s letter: When a disfigured army officer inherits the guardianship of a young girl, he never dreams she would be in the charge of a charming and pretty teacher.

Available for preorder on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Winters-Romance-Regency-Anthology-ebook/dp/B0DG3R12L1

Penny Hampson writes mysteries, and because she has a passion for history, you’ll find her stories also reflect that. A Gentleman’s Promise, a traditional Regency romance, was Penny’s debut novel and the first of her Gentlemen Series. There are now three novels in the series, with the fourth, An Adventurer’s Contract, due to be released by the end of 2024.

Penny lives with her family in Oxfordshire, and when she is not writing, she enjoys reading, walking, swimming, and the odd gin and tonic (not all at the same time).

For more on Penny’s writing, visit her blog: https://pennyhampson.co.uk/blog/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/penny_hampson

Facebook: www.facebook.com/pennyhampsonauthor

Instagram: @pennyhampsonauthor/

Penny’s books are all available on Amazon: viewauthor.at/Pennysbooks