When Sofia Brotherton's father dies, she and her sisters are left facing ruin.

They can't believe their good luck when Sofia finds a position in fashionable Bath. It seems the perfect solution. But Sofia's carefully laid plans are thrown into disarray with the appearance of the formidable Earl of Avon. James Brotherton is wealthy, powerful, accustomed to obedience – and their new guardian. And he has no intention of allowing his wards to fend for themselves.

Sofia has spent her life relying on nobody but herself. Independent, outspoken and fiercely protective of those she loves, she refuses to be managed by any man – even one as infuriatingly handsome as the earl.

As sparks fly and tempers flare, Sofia finds herself drawn into the glittering world of Avon Court, where hidden secrets, unexpected dangers and family loyalties threaten to change everything. Yet the greatest danger of all may be the growing attraction neither she nor James can ignore.

Can two stubborn hearts overcome their differences, before pride costs them the one thing they never expected to find. . . love?

Fenella J. Miller's Regency romances are filled with spirited heroines, compelling heroes and all the wit, warmth and intrigue of the period. The perfect respite for readers who love Gill Hornby, Janice Hadlow, Jane Austen and the glamour of Bridgerton.

Praise for Fenella J. Miller

'Fenella Miller brings alive a variety of emotions and weaves in facts relating to the era, all of which keep me reading into the small hours.' Glynis Peters, bestselling author of The Secret Orphan.

'Curl up in a chair with Fenella J Miller's characters and lose yourself in another time and another place.' Lizzie Lane

'Engaging characters and setting which whisks you back to the home front of wartime Britain. A fabulous series!' Jean Fullerton