The Paid Companion

ISBN: 0515138649

Author: Quick, Amanda

Condition: New

Once again, the incomparable Quick has whipped up a delectable Regency romance (Booklist)-about an ice-cold business agreement that turns into something far more heatedThe Earl of St. Merryn needs a woman. His intentions are purely practical-he simply wants someone sensible and suitably lovely to pose as his betrothed for a few weeks among polite society. He has his own agenda to pursue, and a false fiancée will keep the husband-hunters at bay while he goes about his business. The simplest solution is to hire a paid companion. After all, the sorry women who must accept such employment are sure to be grateful for any favor...When he encounters Miss Elenora Lodge, he believes his problem is solved. Her dowdy attire and pinned-up hair cannot hide her fine figure and the fire in her golden eyes. And her unfortunate circumstances-and secret dreams of a life onstage-make the Earls offer undeniably appealing.But St. Merryn is clearly hiding something, and things seem oddly amiss in his gloomy Rain Street home. Elenora is soon to discover that his secrets are even darker than his décor-and this lark will be a more dangerous adventure than shed been led to believe. And Arthur, Earl of St. Merryn, will find that the meek and mild companion hed envisioned has become both a partner in his quest to catch a killer-and an outspoken belle of the ball who stirs a bothersome passion in his practical heart...

• england | romance | regency | mystery | alchemy