Branwell Chronicles

The ruined manor promised her romance, but its master was maddeningly elusive. Prey to gothic sensibilities, Miss Lenora Breckinridge is smitten with the air of tragedy and romance surrounding an abandoned mansion. Convinced that she is fated to become its mistress, she sets out to find the master, secure in the belief that he will fall madly in love with her and they will use her fortune to restore the manor together. Mr. James Ingles is disillusioned by the short hand fate has continually dealt him, but goes to be caretaker to the ruined mansion in a last effort to seek his fortune. When he discovers Miss Breckinridge's fascination with the ruin, however, he recognizes an opportunity to get the better of fate, if only he can play his cards right.

He pursued her for ambition. She spurned him for the same. Can one persistent friend open their hearts to love? Jonathan Blysdale has risen from wealthy tradesman's son to gentleman in the highest circles of Society through sheer determination. When he catches sight of Lady Athena Dibbington, he knows he has found the jewel to crown his achievement. But Lady Athena was bred to marry no less than a marquess, and she has no patience with the attentions of one so far beneath her as Blysdale. Yet it is not beneath Lady Athena to sustain her lifelong friendship with the awkward and outspoken Iris Slougham, whose family's wealth also originated in trade. This very peculiarity inspires Iris to further Blysdale's suit, for she is convinced there is more to him than ambition. But will her unconventional efforts to help secure her friend's happiness do more harm than good?

She had no opinion of marriage or of men, but is her cold heart proof against true love? The last thing Clara Mantell wishes for is a husband. The daughter of a rake, she has learned to despise men and marriage, and considers love with contempt. Instead, she seeks out men like her father, wielding her considerable charm as a weapon to take them down a peg or two. Lawrence Simpford has been in love with Clara for years but, not being a rake, is unable to gain her attention. He tries to content himself with being her best friend, in the hopes that eventually he may break down her walls and win her heart. But when Clara recklessly takes on two of the most dangerous rakes in Bath, Lawrie's devotion is tested to the limit, and neither is prepared for the consequences.