Banished from London by her father to her aunt’s house in Colchester, over a scandal caused by her sister that has all London talking, Miss Nora Murphy bides her time by trying to convince the local theatre manager to allow her to stage a play to benefit the Lost Slipper Society.
Darwin, a local fellow who teaches drums to orphans, wishes to use the same theatre for his own event. When Nora’s aunt suggests they might convince the manager of Nora’s case by pretending to court, Darwin agrees, but has reservations.
He has a secret he doesn’t wish revealed–especially not to Nora’s circle in London. For will Nora still love him, and the people of Colchester regard him the same if they find out their mild-mannered, charitable drum teacher is actually a duke-in-disguise?
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From the author’s direct store, and Universal Book Link: https://books.julidrevezzo.com/playwrightduke
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/261227125-the-playwright-and-the-duke
Excerpt
Lady Wavington drew him away. “Mr. Fleetil, the children have perfect rhythm. But there won’t be much to gain from it, ere long.”
Fleetil walked with the elder woman, not liking the turn of this conversation. “Now, Lady Wavington, that might be the case, I suppose. But you must know it’s better to begin honing your talents at a tender age.”
“Then you relish the idea of training a bunch of street urchins?”
“Why call them urchins? All the great composers began at their age, and younger. Surely, you at least know the story of Mozart.”
“Do you think one of your charges matches his skill? On drums? Do stop teasing me, Mr. Fleetil.” A contemplative look crossed her features.
“Perhaps. But the lessons I give take their minds off their plight.”
The wrinkles at the corners of her eyes eased a bit. “Yes. Horrible thing, poverty.”
Ah, had he hit a nerve with her? Good. He hoped so. “I’m sure you realize these children could always do with more assistance.”
“I do, Mr. Fleetil, but do you not think the parish does all they can for them?”
Dash it all. This had gone the wrong way. “They do much, but not, as you say, all. Think of how it might elevate your reputation when those in Colchester Society learn you assisted these poor waifs.”
He hated labeling the children as such, but if it loosened the Wavington family purse strings, it was worth it.
“I’ve no doubt these children won’t be the only ones to sing your praises.”
Her expression changed. Ah, had his statement piqued her interest? “What do you require of me, sir?”
“I heard you giving praise to young Judith. Could you give her a home, too?”
The older woman’s eyes went wide. For a moment, Darwin allowed himself to hope for the best.
“How old is the child?”
“Thirteen, ma’am. She should be learning all she needs to know for her come out soon, don’t you think?”
“Her?” Lady Wavington considered Judith again from across the yard. “Oh, she’s a pretty thing, but not of a class to have such an introduction.”
“Not in her present situation, no. Unless someone takes her under her wing.”
“She would do well to find a position as a lady’s maid, would she not? Even then, she won’t be presented to Her Majesty.”
He needed to be more straightforward with the lady, he realized. “You would make a fine sponsor for her, madam. I’m sure Judith would appreciate any assistance you might give her.”
“Me? Oh, no. No. I can’t possibly take on another charge. I’ve far too many nieces to cultivate as it is.” A mischievous smile bloomed on her face. “And how many young ladies do you have your eye on, sir? May I introduce you to more?”
How did the conversation veer in this direction? The last thing he wanted.
About the Author
Juli D. Revezzo is an author of sweet Victorian romance novels featuring proper courtship, emotional depth, and richly detailed historical settings. She is the author of the Lost Slipper Society and The Camden Girls sweet Victorian romance series. She also writes historical fantasy and speculative romance, including the steampunk romances the Gears, Cogs, and Puppy Dogs series and Watchmaker’s Heart, as well as the gaslamp romance House of Dark Envy. In addition, she writes paranormal and fantasy series including Antique Magic, the Celtic Stewards Chronicles, and the Stewards War series.
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