The London Belle — Shirley Kennedy

More Than a Mere Pretty Bauble

Lady Jane Sperling is the eldest daughter of the Earl of Hedley, and in her third season. Her finicky nature and scholarly pursuits have prevented her from complying with her family's wishes to wed her off to some wealthy old man. But now her father's gambling debts have put the entire Sperling fortune in jeopardy... .

To help the Sperlings, Lord Dashmont offers Jane employment as a companion and tutor for his son, who still grieves over the death of his mother. Wary of the notorious rake's true motives she reluctantly agrees. And as Jane helps a frightened little boy emerge from his shell, her actions also melt the heart of he employer. But can she trust Dashmont--a disreputable rogue and gambler--enough to fall in love with him?

Hero: Anthony, Lord Dashmont
Heroine: Lady Jane Sperling