The Companion — Mary Kingswood

A traditional Regency romance, drawing room rather than bedroom.

Margaret is the quiet one of the Winterton family, happy only in her own home with her sisters protectively gathered around her. But her father's death and mountain of debts tear the sisters apart and uproot them from Woodside. As a poor relation, Margaret must become a lowly paid companion to two elderly aunts she has never met. There is no welcome for Margaret at their gloomy house, Pendarreth, but the surrounding woods bring her solace - and unexpected danger.

Mel Haymer is a simple country curate by profession, but his past holds a dark secret. He is quite content to leave the past undisturbed, but then he meets Margaret Winterton, a young lady unlike any other he's ever known. He can't deny his feelings for her, but if he surrenders to love, he will bring disaster to his family. Margaret's coming cracks the fragile shell hiding family tragedies. Can Mel and Margaret find the strength to uncover the truth and turn Pendarreth into a happy home?

Book 3 of the 5-book Sisters of Woodside Mysteries series, each a complete story with a HEA, but read all of them to find out all the secrets of the Winterton family!