The Valentine Hidden in a Book of Poetry

In the quiet corners of Regency society, some hearts bloom in secret.Lady Eliza Northfield, the youngest sister of the Duke of Northfield at six-and-twenty, has mastered the art of being overlooked. After four unsuccessful London seasons, she has resigned herself to a comfortable spinsterhood-free to read, reflect, and escape the disappointments of the marriage mart. No longer does she harbour foolish hopes of a match with a gentleman who would cherish her mind and conversation, rather than requiring her to silence her opinions and attend only to his, or who would seek her modest fortune rather than a meeting of minds.Yet at a tedious afternoon gathering, a fleeting glance from Mr. James Franklin-a reserved gentleman who seems to truly see rather than merely observe-plants an unwelcome seed of possibility. When an unexpected invitation arrives to a modest Valentine’s Day gathering at his estate, Eliza tells herself it means nothing. Surely a man of his standing and character would never bestow more than common civility upon an aging wallflower such as herself-particularly when Miss Beatrice Pemberton, in the first fresh bloom of her season, so prettily accomplished at the pianoforte, and aided by her determined mama, Lady Pemberton, had fixed Mr. Franklin so decidedly in their sights these many months.But when a hidden Valentine, tucked within the pages of an old book of poetry, is pressed into her hands by Mr Franklin, Eliza’s carefully guarded heart begins to stir. What begins as innocent curiosity soon reveals deeper truths-about observation, understanding, and the quiet courage it takes to embrace hope when one has long given it up.A sweet, clean Regency romance of quiet longing, unexpected connection, and the gentle power of being truly seen. Perfect for fans of gentle historical love stories with wallflower heroines and heartfelt discoveries.(No explicit content; wholesome and uplifting.)