Wealthy businessman John Gardner counts his wife, the widowed Countess Napier, as his finest possession. Beautiful, refined and a devoted mother, the Countess has the one thing that all his money cannot buy -- a place in Society. When she dies still grieving for her first husband, the volatile Mr Gardener decides that his stepdaughter, Lady Selina, should become his passport into the titled classes. Eager to fit into a world that values birthright over cash, he decides to marry her off to the highest bidder. But he hasn't bargained for his vivacious stepdaughter's willful defiance. Determined to marry only for love, Selina flees the harsh discipline of Gardener Manor and takes her chances on the open road. Rescued from peril by the Marquis of Castleton, a serious and thoughtful man committed to doing his best for the people of his estate, Selina finds in him an unlikely ally. Equally appalled at plans for his own arranged marriage, the pair join forces against those intent on pushing them up the aisle. Pitched into an exciting adventure that sees them chased across Europe, Selina and the Marquis soon discover that despite their age difference they are both romantics searching for true love. But will they find it, or will their sense of duty see them both married to the wrong person? Trickery, deception and a tangled web of emotions will see their good intentions pushed to the limits, before the final explosive showdown where the Marquis finally proves himself a man of shrewd wit -- and passion.

Originally published in 1951, The Hidden Fairing presents one man's moral choices, and their consequences, against the background of a society impressed by material success and divided by class and religious prejudices. Growing up on a croft in the remote Highland village of Barnfingal, Bartle MacDonald is shown little affection by his dour widowed mother. Consequently, he enjoys the benevolent attention of Lady Wain, whose annual presence with her family in the Big House brightens his world. He is also imaginatively excited by his grandmother's strange stories, shared in secret, about her past on the island of Wrack. These stories form a bond between them that later, for good or ill, influences Bartle's major life choices. Academically gifted, Bartle progresses to Glasgow University where he excells in Mathematics and, thanks to Lady Wain's patronage, he is offered a prestigious research post. However, Maysie Wain's high-handed rejection of his marriage proposal forces Bartle to realise that he can never really belong in her world, and he declines the position and the brilliant future he thought it promised, in favour of obscurity as a village dominie. Finally finding a form of contentment after a life peppered with disappointments, his equanimity is shattered by an echo from his past. But, like the other gifts he has received, is this latest 'fairing' a punishment or a reward?

1820 is a worrying time for His Royal Highness Prince Laszle as the might of the Prussian Empire moves ever closer to the boarders of his independent principality, Opava. Concerned for the welfare and happiness of his subjects, he reluctantly sends his beautiful daughter, Princess Zoleka, on a secret mission to the neighbouring state of Krnov, which is in crisis. Masquerading as Lady-in-Waiting to Princess Udele, the heir to the throne, Zoleka is horrified to discover that Krnov is in political turmoil. Greeted by demotivated palace staff, shocked by the dilapidated buildings and poverty throughout the principality, Zoleka vows to discover the strange malady that has struck the head of state, Prince Majmir, and restore Udele to her rightful place. Discovering that Princess Udele, although she is eighteen, is kept away from state matters and still treated like a child, Zoleka decides to teach Udele the skills necessary to be a Princess so she can gain the respect of the people and help Krnov become strong again. But has Princess Zoleka arrived too late to stir the Royal Place into action and stop the ever increasing danger from the Prussian Army? Even the unexpected arrival of His Royal Highness Prince Vaslov of Cieszyn, and the dedication of Zoleka's loyal aide-de-camp, Count von Hofmannstall, may not be enough to keep Krnov independent as the tension mounts. Against this dramatic backdrop the Princesses forge a deep friendship and learn lessons in life - and, unexpectedly, in love too. As Krnov hurtles towards its darkest hour, hearts are won and lost and the meaning of true love and loyalty are tested to the limits. If you like Downton Abbey you will love Barbara Cartland

Returning home from France Robina Melville finds surprises awaiting her -- not all of them pleasant. Almost immediately it becomes clear that the familiar surroundings of Trentham House are not the sanctuary that she hoped for, and she soon feels unwanted and alone.Still in mourning for her beloved mama and shocked by the changes in her father, Robina struggles to come to terms with all that she has lost. Alongside this her stepmother, the new Lady Melville, seems intent on marrying off her to the wealthiest suitor, regardless of Robina's wishes.A chance encounter with a childhood friend, the handsome new Earl of Hampton, provides Robina with employment as his secretary and a temporary escape from her stepmother's clutches.But when Robina is forced to flee in order to avoid the unwanted attentions of Lord Drury, she finds herself at the mercy of the Earl's dissolute brother, Ellis.With a stepmother who will stop at nothing to marry her off, can Robina discover her true heart's desire as well as regain the love of her father? Or will she be married off to the highest bidder and lose her freedom as well as her home? If you like Downton Abbey you will love Barbara Cartland

Robert Lyndon, heir apparent to a dukedom and newly spurned lover is desperate to save face amongst the young dandies and court ladies of Regency London society. Handsome, wealthy and decorated for his bravery in the army fighting for King and country, Robert is recognised as one of the most eligible bachelors in Society. Yet despite his success with the ladies, it seems that he cannot find the perfect wife.Beautiful Rania Temple is living in impoverished gentility in the country. Away from the fashions and trends of the city, she is devoted to her family home and much loved horses. The only stain on her otherwise perfect landscape is a serious lack of money, without which she stands to loses all she holds dear.A chance meeting sees them join forces to enter a deception that will benefit both of their needs. But are they capable of pulling off a charade that will fool everyone from Harry, Rania's beloved brother, to the leader of the Beau Monde, the Prince Regent himself? As a tangled web of deceit is spun around the couple, it seems that Robert is not the only player in this game with a taste for revenge. If you like Downton Abbey you will love Barbara Cartland

Daughter of the Earl of Longwood, a gentleman gambler, and the Countess of Longwood, a society beauty, Lady Yolanda Wood has an exciting if unconventional childhood travelling around the casinos and racecourses of Europe. But life changes dramatically after the tragic death of her father, and she and her ravishing mother are left penniless and alone. In mourning for her husband, and dependent on the kindness of selfmade millionaire Oliver Garrack, the Countess's gratitude swiftly turns to romance and Yolanda finds herself with a stepfather she neither likes nor respects. For several years Yolanda finds solace in her French Convent School but her world is rocked again when her mother suddenly dies, leaving her an orphan with only her stepfather to protect her from poverty and destitution. As fate forces them together, Yolanda begins to understand how much her stepfather worshipped her mother, and gains an insight into the workings of his clever brain. As her feelings change from acceptance to admiration she is shocked to find that he will stop at nothing to make money.Torn between helping him gain a contract that is certain to make him even more millions, and repaying an old debt to a friend of her fathers, Lord Milborne, Yolanda is plunged into the darker side of business. But when she secretly visits Lord Milborne she finds he is not in the least what she expected, and her loyalties are tested to the limits. Torn between who to trust and a desire to find true love, Yolanda faces difficult choices and challenges that she could never have dreamt of along the way to true happiness. If you like Downton Abbey you will love Barbara Cartland

Money may not be able to buy you love but without it an Earldom is an empty title as black sheep of the family, Michael Belmont, could discover to his cost. Heir to a huge country estate, filled with antiques and the finest furniture, Michael's gambling debts and dissolute lifestyle result in a desperate quarrel with his father, who threatens to disinherit him. When his father dies suddenly, Michael has sunk so low that he does not even have enough money for his fare home. With his allowance gambled and his fine clothes pawned Michael is a man in despair. But all that changes when he meets the beautiful Lady Verna, who is seeking a chauffeur to drive her car home to England. Not knowing that her willing volunteer is actually an Earl, they strike up an unlikely friendship and before the journey ends he has fallen under her spell. Captivated by her independent spirit and positive outlook Michael knows that their love will reform him, and suddenly there is brilliant new hope in his life. All he has to do is win the trust of her father, wealthy Lord Challoner, and convince him of his suitability as a husband -- but the shadow of the late Earl's threat looms large. With so much uncertainly the only thing they can be sure of is their love. As Michael tries to turn his life around and win the hand of the woman he adores can Lady Verna convince her father that love is enough to live on? Meanwhile Michael's cunning younger brother, Anthony, has his eye on the estate. Their father's favourite, he may not carry the title but he is determined to take everything else from his brother including the bride.

An epic and transporting novel, the latest installment of the “heart-wrenching, uplifting, and utterly enthralling” (Lucy Foley, author of The Guest List) Seven Sisters series, unravelling between the dazzling streets of modern-day New York City and the breathtaking plains of 1940s colonial Kenya.

Electra d’Aplièse is a top model who seems to have it all: beauty, fame, and wealth. But beneath the glittery veneer, she’s cracking under all the pressure. When her father dies, she turns to alcohol and drugs to ease the pain. As friends and colleagues fear for her health, Electra receives a shocking letter from a stranger who claims to be her grandmother.

In 1939, New Yorker Cecily Huntley-Morgan arrives in Kenya’s Lake Naivasha region for the exciting chance to stay with her godmother, the famous socialite Kiki Preston. But after a sheltered upbringing, she’s astounded by the hedonistic antics of the other ex-pats in the infamous Happy Valley set. Cecily soon grows to love her stunning but complicated new home, and she even accepts a proposal of marriage from an enigmatic older cattle farmer. After a shocking discovery and with war looming, Cecily feels isolated and alone. Until she meets a young woman in the woods and makes her a promise that will change the course of her life forever.

Featuring Lucinda Riley’s “engaging and mesmerizing” (Library Journal, starred review) storytelling and filled with unforgettable and moving characters, The Sun Sister explores how love can cross seemingly impossible boundaries.

Beautiful Jasmina Winfield is a thoroughly modern American girl who likes to make her own decisions. A skilled and daring horsewoman, she is used to taking care of herself and takes orders from no one -- especially not a man. Arriving in Yorkshire from Missouri to visit her relations, the Duke and Duchess of Harley, Jasmina is captivated by the sad romantic tale of her near neighbour the reclusive Earl of Somerton. Leaving Harley Grange to spend Christmas with cousins in nearby Debbingfield, Jasmina makes a wish that she could meet him to discover the mysteries that shroud his impressive home, Somerton Castle, and his loyal staff. And is seems that her wish is granted as a raging blizzard and runaway stallion conspire to halt her journey and she finds herself an unwelcome guest at Somerton Castle. Stranded by the weather with no means of communicating with the outside world, the fiercely independent young woman is forced to accept the grudging hospitality of the seemingly bad tempered Earl. As two cultures collide the fireworks begin to fly as the Earl tries to curb Jasmina's exuberance and make her conform to his old fashioned ideas of feminine behaviour. But the Earl soon comes to recognise that alongside her free spirit runs a deep vein of loyalty and bravery, which is tested to the limits as dark forces gather like the clouds heralding more snow around the bleak castle. In an adventure that is fraught with danger and treachery Jasmina and the Earl battle against unknown forces, discovering friendship and ultimately love along the way. If you like Downton Abbey you will love Barbara Cartland

Young, happy and deeply in love the future looks rosy for local beauty Lilliana Parker and her beau Robert, the dashing Earl of Sherborne. Their friends and family wait with baited breath for news of their inevitable engagement, certain that nothing can harm the charmed life of this golden couple.However, fate has other plans and the Earl is called to re-join his Regiment in India on a mission that is both dangerous and vital to Queen and country. Terrified of being apart the sweethearts enter into a secret engagement, pledging to love each other always.Whilst he is away, Lilliana's father -- Sir William Parker -- becomes embroiled in a scandal that could not only cost him his political career, but also, his life. Certain of his innocence, Lilliana loyally explores every avenue to find the money to pay his exorbitant bail, vowing that any sacrifice is worth it to restore his good name and save her family from ruin. But it seems that the only way to free her father comes with a hefty price tag -- marriage to Lord Farringdon, a cold and obsessive stranger. Can she really give up her dreams of true love with the Earl for a loveless marriage? Forced to choose between the life of her father and her love for the Earl, Lilliana is horribly torn between duty and following her heart. Her only hope is that the Earl can rescue her, but is love enough? Even if they did vow it would last forever? If you like Downton Abbey you will love Barbara Cartland

Heir to the throne of Valdina, beautiful Attila vows two things -- to do everything in her power to return her beloved sick father, King Sigismund, to health and to find true love. But it seems that her stepmother, the scheming and selfish Queen Margit has other ideas for her future. Desperate to marry her as quickly as possible to Prince Otto, a young man with a shadowy past, Queen Margit's eyes are set firmly on the throne for herself. And it seems she will stop at nothing to get her own way and rule Valdina alone. Turning to Father Jozsef, her childhood mentor, for help Attila agrees to go on a pilgrimage to the Shrine of St. Janos, not only to avoid Prince Otto, but also to pray for the King's speedy recovery. Guided by the spirit of her mother and the unconditional love of Father Jozsef, she also fervently prays that she will find a man to love worthy of her royal blood. In a journey filled with spiritual insights, adventure and great sadness, Attila comes to realise the true meaning of love when a handsome stranger awakens in her feelings that she has only dreamt of. But will the happiness she finds be snatched from her as Attila bravely returns home? Will she be forced into a loveless, but politically astute marriage? Or will true love protect her from the dangers surrounding her? One thing is for certain life in Valdina will ever be the same again as love battles to overcome the difficulties of royal duty and the intrigues of Queen Margit. If you like Downton Abbey you will love Barbara Cartland

All eyes are on Lady Tamina Braithwaite as she dazzles the cream of London society at a masked ball. Dressed as a bird of paradise, even the sumptuous silks of her costume cannot detract from the glow that love has given her. In love for the first time with a handsome young politician, it would appear that they are a couple destined for great things. But is she the only one who is pretending to be something other than she is? Underneath Tamina's frothy exterior there is an intelligent young woman who values truth and loyalty above all else. A late night telephone call threatens to destroy her happiness forever, so donning yet another mask Tamina flees London for Europe on board the Blue Diamond. On a voyage that no one will ever forget, Tamina's strong spirit is tested to the limits as old wounds are healed, new friendships are forged and the meaning of true love finally discovered. If you like Downton Abbey you will love Barbara Cartland .

Orphaned young and cast upon the charity of her disapproving Aunt Willis, Elvira Carrisford has known little love and affection in her life. All that looks set to change for the better when Elvira is invited to become companion to her lively cousin, Delphine, who is hoping to make a match worthy of her wealth and status. With only hazy childhood memories of her last visit, Elvira is unsure of what to expect but is determined to make a good impression. Lost in the blizzard, and rescued by the enigmatic Serge, Elvira arrives at Baseheart Castle late, disheveled and in need of love and comfort from her family. But it seems that fate intends that their paths shall cross again, and Elvira is stunned when her rescuer turns out to be none other than the valet of the handsome French Prince, intended for her cousin. As a complicated web of love, betrayal and deceit unfolds, Elvira is plunged into a world where people are never what they seem and appearances are definitely deceiving. If you like Downton Abbey you will love Barbara Cartland .

Francis, the Marquis of Wimborton needed an heiress. Lexia had money and her father wanted her to marry a Lord. But she was a spirited girl, raised in America and she wanted to choose her own husband. The Marquis was too proud to court her, especially as he believed her heart was given to Wayne Freeman, an American that her father had brought her to England to avoid. They unexpectedly became the best of friends, escaping together from family pressures and boarding a cruise liner in search of their dreams. Along the way they both found themselves pursued, rousing jealousy in each other. Then Wayne Freeman turned up and life became even more complicated. At last their ship reached Greece where Lexia could invoke Eros and Aphrodite, the Gods of love. For now she had made her choice and was determined to have the man she loved. But which one was it? How she decided and how they both won the love they sought is told in this romantic novel by BARBARA CARTLAND. If you like Downton Abbey you will love Barbara Cartland .

As he cuts a swathe through the glittering balls and elegant soirees of London society he is pursued by debutantes and married hostesses alike. Admired by men, including the Prince of Wales, for his intelligence, bravery and ability to take on any challenge to defend his country it seems the Marquis lives a charmed life. Beautiful Lanthia Grenville is a stranger to the city and the new fashions set by the Prince of Wales and his wild, fun loving 'Marlborough House set'. Leaving her sheltered life in the country for a shopping trip chaperoned by the kindly Mrs Blossom, Lanthia looks forward to an exciting stay at the celebrated hotel, The Langham. But it seems that the Marquis' luck has finally run out after a liaison with a beautiful Spanish Contessa inflames the jealousy of her fiery husband. Eager to avoid a duel, he flings himself upon the mercy of Lanthia persuading her to enter into a secret pact to avoid social ruin. Protected by her doting parents and dreaming of true love, travel and adventure, Lanthia is suddenly plunged into more excitement than she could ever have imagined as their ruse threatens to be uncovered. As friendships are tested to the limits and danger threatens will Lanthia be the one to halt the Rakes progress and teach him the meaning of true love, loyalty and fidelity? Or will the fanatical Conte ultimately wreak his revenge and shatter the lives of everyone? If you like Downton Abbey you will love Barbara Cartland

When Lord Rupert Brooke and his wife are killed in an accident, their only child, Titania, was forced to live with her uncle, the Duke of Starbrooke, who had never approved of her father's marriage and did not consider her grand enough to be a member of the Starbrooke family. Titania is forced to serve her cousin Sophie as no more than a lady's maid. Sophie is to marry Prince Frederick of Velidos, a small country in the Balkans and Titania is taken with her to pander to her every whim. Titania is broken-hearted leaving behind her horse which she adores and her Nanny who is the only person who really loves her. When she reaches Velidos, the King, who is the half-brother of Prince Frederick, finds her in tears and does his best to comfort her. Secretly Titania rides with the King early in the morning before her cousin is awake and discovers that he prides himself on having no heart. How she gains the King's confidence, how she manages to save the King from being murdered and how she eventually finds her own happiness, is all told in this unusual and exciting story by BARBARA CARTLAND. If you like Downton Abbey you will love Barbara Cartland.

Lord Robert Templeton is adamant that the responsibilities of his newly inherited Earldom are not for him. Leaving his family home, Ledbury Hall, in the capable hands of his younger brother, Alec, he plunges headfirst into the heady delights of London nightlife. But his carousel of gambling, drinking and selfish pleasure is cut short and he is forced to return to home. Disenchanted by the society beauties that relentlessly pursue his handsome face and title, and willfully ignoring the attentions of an attractive but overbearing widow, the Earl swears that he will never marry. Feeling doomed to a life in the country, the Earl is delighted by his timely re-acquaintance with Miranda Whitby, a childhood friend who once saved his life. Beautiful, capable and determined, Miranda inspires the Earl to plan for the future of his estate. As their friendship deepens and the Earl eagerly shoulders the responsibilities he once shirked, he is reminded of a promise he made Miranda many years earlier. But can a promise made as children withstand adult secrets? When the mysterious Lord Brookfield suddenly appears, danger hangs over Miranda threatening to destroy her dreams and the future happiness of everyone.

Erika

I was told that dreams were our heart's desires. My nightmares, however, became my obsession.

His name is Michael Crist. My boyfriend's older brother is like that scary movie that you peek through your hand to watch. He's handsome, strong, and completely terrifying. The star of his college's basketball team and now gone pro, he's more concerned with the dirt on his shoe than me.

But I noticed him. I saw him. I heard him. The things that he did, and the deeds that he hid...For years, I bit my nails, unable to look away.

Now, I've graduated high school and moved on to college, but I haven't stopped watching Michael. He's bad, and the dirt I've seen isn't content to stay in my head anymore.

Because he's finally noticed me.

Michael

Her name is Erika Fane, but everyone calls her Rika.

My brother's girlfriend grew up hanging around my house and is always at our dinner table. She looks down when I enter a room and stills when I am close. I can always feel the fear rolling off of her, and while I haven't had her body, I know that I have her mind. That's all I really want anyway.

Until my brother leaves for the military, and I find Rika alone at college. In my city. Unprotected.

The opportunity is too good to be true, as well as the timing. Because you see, three years ago she put a few of my high school friends in prison, and now they're out.

We've waited. We've been patient. And now every last one of her nightmares will come true.

*Corrupt is a STANDALONE dark romance with no cliffhanger. It is suitable for ages 18+.

Two attractive, intelligent people with one thing in common - both of them have sworn never to marry, unless it is for true love. Beautiful and headstrong, Lady Elva Chartham shocks her family when she denounces the debutante balls and festivities of London as a waste of her time. Determined not to bow to the pressure of polite society into an early marriage, she returns home to the pleasures of the country and to dream of travel and adventure. Little does she know that opportunities for both will be presented to her during a surprise visit from her cousin, the enigmatic Duke of Sparkbrook. Handsome and equally adamant that he will not marry the eligible young ladies paraded before him, they enter into a pact to help the British Government. Leaving the safety of England for Russia and the opulent court of Empress Catherine, Elva and the Duke grow closer as they face great danger amongst the plotters and espionage they discover. Will they succeed in their mission and return safely back to Britain? Or will their deception be discovered as they get drawn ever deeper into a court filled with desire, betrayal, revenge, and ultimately love? If you like Downton Abbey you will love Barbara Cartland .

Lady Lolita Vernon, daughter of the late Earl of Walcott and Vernon, has run away. Her stepfather, Ralph Piran is forcing her to accept the attentions and perhaps an offer of marriage from his business partner, Murdock Tanner, who is very rich but old and repulsive. While she is trying to cover her tracks in London she bumps into a small boy, Simon, who is weeping because he has been beaten cruelly by his stepmother. Because it seems a strange coincidence and because Lolita is desperately sorry for the small boy, she listens to his story and agrees to take him to his uncle, Lord Seabrook, who lives in a castle by Lake Ullswater. When they arrive at the castle, Lord Seabrook accepts Lolita's suggestion that she is employed as Simon's governess, calling herself Mrs. Bell. Lord Seabrook is being pursued by Lady Cressington, one of the great beauties of London, and she has stolen a valuable necklace from the fianc she has jilted. How Lolita unwittingly starts a chain of events which alerts her stepfather to her whereabouts, how she attempts to run away again this time from Lord Seabrook, and eventually finds the happiness she is seeking is all told in this enchanting romance by BARBARA CARTLAND. If you like Downton Abbey you will love Barbara Cartland .