Rector’s daughter Cassandra Vincent has lost her father and now she is forced to leave her home. In desperation, she advertises her services as a companion.

Weymouth merchant Jethro Hunt is proud of the success he has achieved from his humble origins. To expand his business, he must impress his investor, and for that he needs a genteel wife. He answers Cassandra’s advertisement and offers her an alternative—a marriage of convenience in return for her help to navigate society.

Trusting in Jethro’s godly reputation, but knowing little else about him, Cassandra takes a risk and accepts his proposal rather than relying on charity. They vow to love each other, but they soon realise this promise means different things to each of them.

Driven apart by misunderstandings, they must unite to face malicious gossip and family problems if they want their marriage to blossom into something more meaningful—or they’ll be forced to settle for the deal they first made.

Set in 1811 in the seaside town of Weymouth, Dorset, this novel by the co-author of the popular Regency History blog is rich in historical detail and includes a glossary and historical notes.