Pride, Prejudice, and Prudence — Anne Gallagher

Lady Prudence Shaffer is the most disliked of all the Marquess of Dunbury’s nieces. She holds no regard for the feelings of others; her caustic tongue and acerbic wit leaves her friendless save for her sister. No one understands the cause for Prudence’s bad manners. She was raised to be a lady, after all.When Alexander Lowell, Viscount Abernathy, meets the beautiful Lady Shaffer, he is completely smitten. In line to inherit the highly regarded Westmoreland Earldom, Alexander’s grandfather is very pleased with his choice, so much so that when a coveted position as Dunbury’s secretary becomes available, Alexander is encouraged to take it.However, one iniquitous remark at a ball about Alexander’s mother has left Prudence dealing with its after effects. A simple apology will not suffice—Lady Lowell refuses to hear it, or allow her son even to think about marrying the dreadful creature. Prudence is shunned within Society.An unexpected trip to Plymouth brings all manner of secrets out in the open, and Prudence uncovers a shocking truth about Alexander that she cannot bear—he is just another puppet in her Uncle Henry’s political intrigues—Alexander never truly loved her.With one final attempt to win the woman of his heart, Alexander must prove to Prudence, his grandfather, and Henry Wade, but most of all to himself that he was not who they thought he was, even if he had to die trying.Prudence finds the ultimate sacrifice would finally bring her heart’s desire, but was it too late?