Will this unlikely match withstand secrets of the past?

The privileged daughter of a viscount, Elodia has been in love with Richard Thornfield, her best friend’s handsome, charming and loving brother, ever since the first time she met him. But just as she gains the courage to confess her feelings, a series of twists leave her with a broken heart and a shattered image of her happy childhood with her parents. Despite this setback she is determined to make a way for herself, even if it doesn’t include Richard Thornfield.

As a wealthy businessman Richard has always had a very clear idea of his rights and what he does and doesn’t deserve. When he decides to give up his mistress and turn his mind to matrimony he knows what to expect from the women of the ton; materialism, duty, possibly companionship, but little else. The last thing he expects is a love confession from Elodia Hawthorne, his younger sister’s clever, alluring and mischievous friend. He has always admired and felt close to her, but it’s obviously not love. Or is it?

The rules of the game are clear; the son of a merchant has no business being with a daughter of the nobility. But stranger things have happened besides this unlikely match. When love starts to blossom despite all odds, will it be strong enough to withstand the destruction left by secrets of the past

… with a little help from their friends?

Tropes you’ll love:

• Best friend’s sibling romance

• Class differences / forbidden love

• Longtime unrequited love

• Wealthy self-made hero

• Damaged family past / secrets revealed

• Love against society’s rules

• Friends-to-lovers with a twist