A Bride For Marcus

A Regency scandal, a marriage of convenience Marcus, the handsome Earl of Alverleigh, is London's most eligible bachelor—yet he's vowed never to marry for love. Bitter experience taught him it only brings pain. Tessa, his lively childhood friend, is now twenty-four and twice widowed, left destitute by her ruthless brother and the laws that prevent women from financial control. Fiercely independent, she refuses to be controlled again—until she's on the brink of a third forced marriage. Marcus rescues her with a practical offer: a sensible marriage between old friends. No passion, no risk—just safety and companionship. Tessa hesitates—her freedom is precious—but scandal forces her hand. On their honeymoon, can the guarded earl and spirited widow rediscover each other? Will laughter, old memories, and long-buried affection bloom? And can what started as practicality and duty become something tender and true? A delightful Regency romance in the tradition of friends-to-lovers and marriage-of-convenience favorites. If you love Anne Gracie's gentle humor, emotional depth, strong heroines, and heroes who learn to trust their hearts, this heartwarming standalone will leave you smiling. Contains mature themes.