Showing results for "Gem" in Historical Fiction

The opportunity of a lifetime lands in Peter Cullen’s lap and nothing is going to stop him taking full advantage, not even the misgivings of his wife. Cullen’s Celtic Cabaret has been flying high, but the real goal, the secret desire of Peter’s heart, America, is finally, incredibly, looking like a reality. The troupe are not at all prepared for what awaits them in prohibition era Atlantic City and they are dazzled by the bright lights. Keeping discipline and ensuring everyone remains focused drives Peter to the edge of his patience, but he soon realises that this is the least of his problems.

From the highly acclaimed author of The Photographer of the Lost, a BBC Radio 2 Book Club Pick They need him to remember. He wants to forget. 1918. In the last week of the First World War, a uniformed soldier is arrested in Durham Cathedral. When questioned, it becomes clear that he has no...

The Red Petticoat is not just another whorehouse. This is a place for every painted lady to get her happy ending. Madame Jewel and her 'gems' welcome hardworking men to come inside for a home-cooked meal or a few hands of cards. They are invited to listen to a pretty girl sing or watch a show. If a bit of intimate comfort is desired, they are welcome to go upstairs and into the arms of one of the beautiful women wearing the red petticoats. However, refer to its gems as whores and you'll find yourself tossed out into the street.

Julia Schultz has a reputation for being a storyteller, or as others see it, a liar. But with her dark, painful past, stories are all that have kept her company throughout her life. Longing for a fresh start and a second chance, Julia takes a job as a Harvey Girl at the El Tovar Hotel. Learning the trade of a master jeweler is hard work, but Christopher Miller takes pride in running his family's shop and earning the respect of the people around him. But when he discovers that he has six weeks to buy his building before it is sold, he must find a way to save his grandfather's legacy.

Lady Gemma Kemsley is in dire straits. Her cousin Alfie inherited her father's estate upon his death. He quickly bled it dry of funds, and is turning his lecherous intentions toward her. Alfie wants to have complete control over her inheritance. Without Alfie's approval, she can't marry. She has one option—run away and live with her best friend in America.

River Prescott has everything she's ever wanted - except perhaps a man. The unconventional ranch owning artist is very certain she doesn't want a husband. But sometimes she can't help wishing for a lover; especially after her new neighbor trespasses and she gets a full frontal view of his assets.

Pearl Acton’s worst fears are coming true. She’ll be trapped in a loveless marriage—just like her parents—as her family seeks to quickly marry her off to the wealthy Mr. Clarence. Until an encounter with a quiet and soulful heir sparks a fragile hope that somehow Pearl might aid her family and marry for love.

Forced into depravity by her tyrannous guardian after her parents’ death, Ruby’s life is one of vile deeds and violence. Unable to remember much of life outside the brothel’s walls, years of despair and abuse have crushed all hope of ever breaking free from her captor’s iron grip. Until an unlikely encounter with Henry, a gentle country clergyman, sets an escape in motion that will change both their lives. But when Ruby’s worst fears are realized, the uncommon pair will face more devastation than either thought possible.

It's 1889 (Helena, MT): Calista Blythe enters the first Miss Snowflake Pageant celebrating Montana statehood to expose the plight of street urchins. But hiding an indentured orphan could unravel Calista's reputation and her budding romance with pageant organizer Albert Shanahan, if her secret is revealed. Will love or law prevail?