Progression Vol. 2 — Jodi L. Covey

A crucial card game, a fencing match, a battle, and a ball! Volume two continues in London, where turmoil and conflict abounds as the Darcys try to make the best of their unavoidable first Season only half a year into the marriage.

Under the guidance of Lady Matlock, both Georgiana and Elizabeth are to be formally introduced to Society's elite, including a special invitation to meet the illustrious Lady Patronesses of Almack's, who preside over the most exclusive balls of the Season.

Elizabeth inadvertently becomes the subject of Town gossip at the same time her marriage to William has brought forth new and wonderful circumstances, and finds it difficult to overcome Society's scrutiny on her own. Will Darcy come to her rescue, or stubbornly ignore what he helped to create?

With Elizabeth's influence, Georgiana's once deflated confidence grows stronger by the day, and with it new and troubling doubts about the brother she'd always seen as no less than perfect.

Meanwhile, as a favor to Charles Bingley, Darcy formulates a plan to expose Caroline Bingley's suitor, the enigmatic Marquess Thornhaugh, as the mercenary he is suspected to be. In order to do so, however, Darcy must enlist the help of not only a reviled relation, but also the hated George Wickham, who claims to know all about the nobleman and is willing to be of service. For a price, of course.

Caroline Bingley is certain that all are against her as she is determined to claim her worthy position as a marchioness. How far will she go to secure her coveted title?

Richard Fitzwilliam forgoes the Season in favor of fighting for King and Country in the war against Napoleon to the bereavement of his family, especially Lord Matlock, who'd always had other plans for this middle son.

Charlotte Collins also ventures to London as companion to Anne de Bourgh, who is determined to break free from her mother's "protection" and live her own life. Charlotte is optimistic, but is so much independence so swiftly asserted really in the innocent young woman's best interest?

Despite a deep love and strong bond, fear and uncertainty still plague Mr. and Mrs. Darcy, and a certain marquess cannot seem to help playing to those insecurities as he both antagonizes and challenges Mr. Darcy to a problematic extent. His family's future at stake, Darcy realizes that proving his love to Elizabeth was only half the battle. Now he must prove it to the World.

This is the second volume of four.