This book wouldn’t have been possible without the incredibly incisive feedback of my wonderful editor, Deb Nemeth, and my amazing beta readers and critique partners, Flora, Sarah, and Lauren. I’m also deeply indebted to the brilliant Rachel McMillan who took time away from her own busy writing schedule to read the first draft of this novel. Rachel could give a masterclass in graciousness and generosity. I’m inspired by her example, and so grateful to call her my friend.

Special thanks also go to my cover designer, James Egan; to my dear friend Charlotte Robe-Hughes for French translations; to Anne Victory and Crystalle for oops detection; to Colleen Sheehan for formatting; and—as always—to my parents, whose assistance made it possible for me to finish this book, in spite of an emergency surgery and the arrival of a new kitten.

Lastly, I’d like to thank you, my readers, for sticking with me, and with this series. Your kind messages and reviews mean more to me than I can say.

About the Author

USA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews writes both historical non-fiction and proper historical romances set in Victorian England. Her articles on nineteenth century history have been published on various academic and history sites, including the Victorian Web and the Journal of Victorian Culture, and are also syndicated at BUST Magazine. In her other life, Mimi is an attorney. She resides in California with her family, which includes an Andalusian dressage horse, two Shelties, and two Siamese cats.

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Other Titles by Mimi Matthews

NON-FICTION

The Pug Who Bit Napoleon

Animal Tales of the 18th and 19th Centuries

A Victorian Lady’s Guide to Fashion and Beauty

FICTION

The Lost Letter

A Victorian Romance

The Viscount and the Vicar’s Daughter

A Victorian Romance

A Holiday By Gaslight

A Victorian Christmas Novella

The Work of Art

A Regency Romance

The Matrimonial Advertisement

Parish Orphans of Devon, Book 1

A Modest Independence

Parish Orphans of Devon, Book 2

The Winter Companion

Parish Orphans of Devon, Book 4