Description

Set in New York City’s Gilded Age, Joanna Shupe’s first book in her Four Hundred series features an English beauty with a wicked scheme to win the man she loves—and the American scoundrel who ruins her best laid plans…

Lady Honora Parker must get engaged as soon as possible, and only a particular type of man will do. Nora seeks a mate so abhorrent, so completely unacceptable, that her father will reject the match—leaving her free to marry the artist she loves. Who then is the most appalling man in Manhattan? The wealthy, devilishly handsome financier, Julius Hatcher, of course….

Julius is intrigued by Nora’s ruse and decides to play along. But to Nora’s horror, Julius transforms himself into the perfect fiancé, charming the very people she hoped he would offend. It seems Julius has a secret plan all his own—one that will solve a dark mystery from his past, and perhaps turn him into the kind of man Nora could truly love.

About the Author

Joanna Shupe has always loved history, ever since she saw her first Schoolhouse Rock cartoon. Her books have appeared on numerous yearly “best of” lists, including Publishers Weekly, The Washington Post, Kirkus Reviews, Kobo, and BookPage. She lives in New Jersey with her two spirited daughters and dashing husband. 

Praise For…

“Nothing makes me happier than a new book from Joanna Shupe.” — Sarah MacLean

“An intelligent, sexy romp!” — Entertainment Weekly

“Shupe’s unique talents shine in her start to The Four Hundred series as her sparkling light humor mixes with poignancy, danger, heated chemistry and delightful dialogue. This enchanting series starter hooks readers who will be craving more.” — RT Book Reviews (top pick)

“Shupe continues to raise the bar for Gilded Age romance with the first book in a promising new series.” — Kirkus Reviews

“Shupe takes readers back to the Gilded Age of 19th-century New York in the enjoyable debut of her Four Hundred series…Shupe has expertly developed her winning protagonists to reveal great depth of character.” — Publishers Weekly

“A young lady’s outrageous plan to marry the man of her dreams backfires most effectively in this steamy romance that takes excellent advantage of a seldom-used New York Gilded Age setting.” — Library Journal