Hana's life is forever changed when the Comtesse de Champagne, a wealthy and eccentric Englishwoman, sees a painting of her. The comtesse purchases Hana from her father, and Hana's existence transforms from one of poverty to one of privilege.For years Hana enjoys the comforts of her new position, but she hates how controlling and neurotic the comtesse is. When the comtesse is accused of murdering Sir Reginald Shipley over a painting, Hana must do all in her power to prove the comtesse's innocence or she'll lose everything.She reluctantly works with Aaron Shipley, Sir Reginald's grandson, to track down the true murderer, only to discover shocking secrets that will shake everything Hana and Aaron thought they knew about themselves and their families. And falling in love could prove deadly.PRAISE FOR SAMANTHA HASTINGSThe Last WordA Junior Library Guild SelectionWitty, spirited, and utterly swoon-worthy. ... Filled with fierce feminism, impeccable period detail, and a charming romance that's sure to stay with readers long after the last word. ―Addie Thorley, author of An Affair of PoisonsGreat voice. Unique premise. ... And who can resist a plucky heroine who is determined to help write an unfinished romance novel by her favorite author! ―B.R. Myers, author of Rogue PrincessHastings' debut is a charming period piece with all the romance and scornful nods to high society any Austen fan will love. Lucinda moves beyond the cliché of being a young woman who chafes at the restrictions of a sexist world, as she's elevated by her true passions―numbers and accounting. The Last Word is the perfect read for anyone who wants to spend a few hours in Victorian England in the company of a girl who understands that the entire country is being led by a Queen. ―BooklistRefreshing ... Lucinda, a young Victorian woman with a modern sensibility well ahead of her time, has plenty of pluck and determination. Hastings' breezy prose and crafty plotting will leave readers racing to uncover her own last installment. ―BookPageThe Invention of Sophie CarterA Junior Library Guild SelectionI loved reading about the bond between these sisters. The romances were super cute. ―Tricia Levenseller, author of Daughter of the Pirate King and The Shadows Between UsA delightful read and just what I needed right now. Readers are sure to be as smitten with the Carter sisters as their suitors are by the end of this utterly charming novel. Highly recommended. ―Miss PrintHilarious, with many laugh-out-loud moments as the twins try to dupe everyone into thinking they're the same person. ... It has the exact right amount of balance. ―Allisa White BooksA Royal Christmas QuandaryA delightful, romantic romp of a book-perfect for readers who like their holiday romance to come with a sprinkling of royal glamour. -Rosalyn Eves, author of Blood Rose RebellionA delightful foray into the Victorian era, A Royal Christmas Quandary will charm readers from page one. With endearing characters, a sweet romance, and fascinating details about Queen Victoria and the royal family, this story is sure to become a new Christmas favorite. -Joanna Barker, author of Otherwise EngagedAn exciting and romantic romp through Victorian England. ... A delicious blend of history, humor, and romance. -Esther Hatch, author of A Proper Scandal
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