A Gentleman's Surrender

By Mariel Grey

Call her a romantic—or a fool, Lady Monique Cathdon is determined to marry for love. After watching her parents tolerate an arranged betrothal, life seems too short to be wasted on keeping up appearances.

After all, what’s the point of having a heart if one refuses to follow it?

With a smile the devil himself might be proud of, James Stanton is not what her mother would call “a matrimonial prospect”. Still, there’s something about the young man that sends Lady Monique’s heart thumping around her chest, and silences her voice of reason.

Unfortunately for Lady Monique, the stakes are high, and young ladies of the Ton make for very poor gamblers. Especially when James Stanton is on the hunt for revenge, and won’t let an innocent woman—or his own passionate desires–get in the way of righting past wrongs.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Mariel Grey
• Release date: Jan 1, 2016
• ISBN: 9780996927727

Mariel Grey

From the moment she could put pen to paper, Mariel Grey knew she wanted to be a writer. Like all good adventures however, it didn’t happen overnight; it was after several decades of working in litigation that the desire to create dramatic worlds and characters became too great to ignore. Her first foray into historical romance, Surrender of Trust, explored the grime and glamour of regency horse racing, following the determined but impoverished Lucy Goodwin and upright Lord Chalifour. Her second novel, A Gentleman’s Surrender, released January 2016, introduced the innocent Lady Monique and tortured Mr. Stanton, both struggling to find love in a world filled with deceit.Though entirely at home in the ballrooms and street alleys of London past, Mariel Grey is currently working on a contemporary story set in Florida, a landscape dear to the author’s heart. When she isn’t conjuring words on her computer screen, Grey can be found on the water fishing, snorkeling, and enjoying the incredible natural beauty of her home.Mariel has a wonderful husband (the hero of her own romantic story) as well as a mischievous cat (who seems happy to play the role of villain). In addition to being a dutiful wife and animal wrangler, Mariel is a member of the American Romance Writers Association, and the Ancient City Romance Authors chapter.Visit Mariel at her website at http://marielgrey.com

Book preview

A Gentleman’s Surrender

By Mariel Grey

Volume 2, Surrender Series

Distributed by Smashwords

Copyright 2015 by Mariel Grey

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, transmitted, or distributed in any form or by any means, without the prior written consent of the author, except in the case of brief quotations embedded in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted under copyright law. Please respect the hard work of this author and do not encourage or participate in piracy of copyrighted materials.

ISBN- 978-0-9969277-2-7

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events and incidents are, either the products of the author's imagination, or have been used in a purely fictitious manner.

Dedication

For my wonderful husband, David, who supports me in all of my endeavors.

Table of Contents

Title Page

Copyright

Dedication

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Author’s Note

Acknowledgments

More About the Author

Other Books by this Author

Chapter One

London, England

June 1804

James Stanton shifted on his feet and struggled to curb his growing agitation. Tinkles of laughter and the strains of violin filled the ballroom, but he ignored the distractions. He was impatient to meet Lady Monique.

Stanton scanned the crowd once again before sighing and returning his attention to his cousin and the attractive women chatting at them. The endless pleasantries and banal conversation was beginning to grate on his nerves.

The woman to his left, whose name he could not recall, waved her fan impatiently. It’s unforgivably vulgar for Lady Monique to be so late and keep her guests waiting.

Only half listening, Stanton envisioned her sporting cat’s claws and a set of twitching whiskers. The image bolstered his fading smile.

Perhaps Lady Monique is feeling poorly, said another, more charitable, woman.

The first sniffed at the comment. Then she should have apologized to her guests and bid them begin without her.

The speculation droned on as to the cause of Lady Monique’s absence. Stanton didn’t give a fig why the hostess’s unmarried daughter had yet to appear and open the dances. All he wanted was an introduction to the damn woman so he could take her measure. After all, she would play a key role in his quest for revenge.

Mercifully, someone took pity on them and finally initiated the first set of dances and Stanton breathed a sigh of relief. Music filled the expansive room and dancers floated across the floor, a rainbow of color in full dress. Their balletic movements were a testament to their rank and privilege, which only served to amplify Stanton’s irritation. Gazing at the dancers again, Stanton wished he was anywhere else. Unfortunately, his plan could not proceed without this step.

He became aware of a ripple of whispers and eyes darting toward the grand hallway behind him. Turning to see what had riveted the attention of those around him, Stanton’s eyes met those of an elegant woman. Lady Monique, he presumed. His quarry had arrived.

****

Lady Monique Cathdon, sister to Lord William Cathdon, Duke of Glenhurst, stood on the staircase and studied the packed ballroom.

Another ball.

This Season had been an endless blur of dancing and parties. She usually loved it, but not this year. The same faces at every social event. A mild panic welled up inside. She had been such a fool. She should have been seeking a husband long before now. The Season was on the wane and she was nowhere near finding a suitable match.

She had always had suitors by the dozens and was in no hurry to wed, finding it much more enjoyable flirting with her admirers and playing them against one another. Almost like a good game of chess. Now when it was time for her to marry, those men she had been even mildly interested in were either married or engaged. The term check mate came to mind.

Monique sighed. Gazing about the room, her eyes fell upon a dark haired man standing just inside the doorway of the ballroom. He stood there, boldly perusing her, confident and devilishly handsome. At least he was someone new. Refusing to give in to the impulse to return his stare, she willed herself to look away.

Gathering the hem of her gown, she descended the staircase, wondering who the stranger was. She didn't want to appear too forward, but the Season was drizzling away. So far, her marriage prospects had been completely uninspiring. Well, if she were honest with herself, they had been downright dismal. Aside from the fact most of her suitors had been dull beyond belief and unable to look beyond her dowry, not one of them had cared a whit about her opinions.

After crossing the threshold, Monique entered the crowded ballroom, ignoring the newcomer and trying not to appear too interested. She caught sight of her dearest friend, Lucy, the new Marchioness of Chalifour. Making her way through the crowded room, she reached her friend and greeted her fondly. She wondered idly if the unknown man was watching her and a warmth rose within her.

Lucy scrutinized her. You look rather flushed and you’re late. Are you feeling well?

Her spirits plummeted, knowing full well her mother was probably apoplectic over her tardiness. It’s nothing. I’m fine, Monique said.

You don’t sound fine. What’s wrong?

She sighed. My mother has been hounding me to find a match.

What about Mr. Denton? Weren’t you were interested in him?

He's somewhat engaging, but certainly not someone I would marry. And even if I wanted to, you know I can’t. He has no title.

I thought you said love and respect were the most important qualities in a prospective husband.

Yes, but I’m beginning to think maybe a title is important, too. Just think how different your life has been in the short time since you married Chali and became a Marchioness.

Yes, but I love Chali. It's not about the title. You of all people know I never wanted to marry and become a man’s property. What I didn't understand was I had to find the right man.

Well, I want to marry the right man, too. And the right man will most certainly have a title. Monique paused at the sight of her friend’s concerned face and let out a sigh, resigned to her fate. Besides, it’s expected of me. My family, especially Mother, has become more incessant in their demands I wed nobility.

Well, I hope you will reconsider your priorities.

Monique smiled at Lucy. With all her heart she wished she could make a love match like her friend had. Instead, she was wearing the weight of her age and family expectations draped around her shoulders like an ugly shawl. She inclined her head toward the stranger. There's a man over by the doorway standing with Mr. Newlin. Do you see him?

The tall man with dark hair in the gray waistcoat?

Yes, that's him. Do you know him?

No, I can't say I do. But he’s staring at us.

The news buoyed Monique’s mood, causing her blood to rush.

Why, Monique. You’re flushed again! Could it have something to do with that gentleman? Lucy teased, mischief shining in her green eyes.

He's the most intriguing man I've seen tonight. Or in weeks and weeks for that matter, Monique said wryly. I definitely want an introduction.

Unfortunately, I don't know Mr. Newlin very well, so I'm afraid I can't introduce you to his friend. Lucy's face crinkled in thought. Who here could reasonably provide you with an introduction?

Perhaps— Monique began.

Good evening, Lady Chalifour and Lady Monique. It is such a pleasure to be here this evening.

Monique turned to find Mr. Newlin standing behind them. It seemed she was going to get her introduction after all. Beside him stood the stranger. Her eyes moved from Newlin’s round face to the sharply angled features of the newcomer where she found herself drawn into a vortex of gray eyes set in a strong, handsome face which had seen far more sun than England generally allowed. Her breath hitched for an instant, causing her to blink. Dragging her eyes from the stranger back to Newlin, she managed to find her voice.

Why, thank you, Mr. Newlin. I am so glad you're enjoying yourself. How do Baron Newlin and Lady Newlin fare? From the corner of her vision, she noted the stranger continued to study her, making it difficult for her attention to remain focused on Newlin.

My parents are hale and hearty, thank you for inquiring. And your mother, Her Grace? I had heard she was ill and detained in the country. I'm gratified to see she is here with you. She is, as always, the perfect hostess for this wonderful event, Newlin said, waving his arm to encompass the room.

My mother was indeed ill, but luckily she has recovered enough to come to Town. At her age, it takes longer to recuperate. That's why she delayed arriving for the Season.

I completely understand and we are certainly blessed by her presence. And speaking of being blessed, or maybe it's cursed…. Newlin smirked at his own joke and turned toward the man beside him. May I present my cousin, Mr. James Stanton? He's just returned from many years in the United States. Mr. Stanton, this enchanting lady is Lady Monique, the daughter of our delightful hostess. And her friend is the Marchioness of Chalifour.

Stanton bowed to Monique and Lucy. I find myself at a loss before your beauty.

A charmer.

Ah, Mr. Newlin, I see your cousin is a wise man. After all, what lady doesn't enjoy compliments? she asked.

Stanton turned to face her, his gaze steady. I must thank your mother for extending the invitation to me on such short notice. It was most gracious of her.

I'm certain she was pleased to do so, Monique said.

Well, now that we have been properly introduced, might I ask you to dance?

I see the grass doesn't grow under your feet, Sir, Monique said, somewhat startled by his direct approach.

No, replied Stanton with just the hint of a smile, drawing her eyes to the cleft in his chin and firm jaw line. I don't generally waste a lot of time when I want something.

A small thrill coursed through Monique. It was impossible not to notice his handsome physique. She cocked her head and eyed Stanton speculatively. And to think she had been worried about being too brash. This man was nothing if not forward and impetuous.

So, may I have the dance? Stanton arched an eyebrow and proffered the tips of his fingers.

Feeling somewhat naughty, Monique allowed him to lead her to the dance floor. A wave of giddiness swept through her, leaving her confused. She hadn't felt this way since her first crush. Ladies of the ton were taught from birth to control their feelings and behavior. Now her training appeared to be deserting her. Criminy. She was as nervous as a schoolgirl.

They moved forward to take their places among the next dancers. Her mother always spent lavishly to ensure their annual balls were one of the most prestigious events of the Season. This year, she was pleased to note, was no exception.

The chandeliers twinkled overhead like so many stars in the heavens, reflected to infinity in the mirrors which lined the walls. Waiting for the set to begin, Monique stood in line with the other ladies and stared at the stranger, admiring the way his smartly tailored coat hugged his broad shoulders. He faced her, as did the other men, in a similar formation on the opposite side of the room. The music started and the participants bowed to one another, stepped forward to address their respective partners, and the dance began.

So why were you late? he whispered.

What?

Surely you knew it would cause speculation?

I can't see what concern it is of yours, she snapped at him, shocked by his forward demeanor.

Stanton shrugged. It isn't. But you were supposed to start the first dance set, weren't you? Isn't that the way it works here? Or was I misinformed?

So she had caused speculation? Her mother was doubtless furious over her tardiness, but to be the object of gossip. Heaven forbid! That was unforgivable. As if she hadn't already been a topic of conversation recently because of her association with Lucy. She shuddered.

Are you cold? Stanton asked.

No, I'm fine.

Then why are you shivering?

She almost stopped in mid-step at his brashness. You certainly ask a lot of impolite questions.

Impolite how?

I'm sure you are aware.

As though she hadn’t replied, he continued without missing a step. May I call upon you this week?

They moved apart, their eyes never leaving one another. My, he's cheeky! Time to put him in his place. They moved together again.

Gentlemen know an introduction at a social event does not mean they should presume further liberties of acquaintance, Monique said.

Who said I was a gentleman? Stanton gave her a wicked smile.

Stunned, Monique couldn't prevent the gasp which escaped her. Well, that's a first.

A first that you’ve met someone who may not be a gentleman, or a first that someone actually admitted to it.

Both, I should say!

There was that wicked smile again. Her heart palpitated a moment, then Monique gave Stanton her sweetest smile in return.

Why, Mr. Stanton, you may call upon me any time you wish. I just haven't decided whether I will receive you or not.

His eyes widened and it was his turn to look surprised. A beat passed before he threw back his head and laughed. Fair enough.

Stanton and Monique, along with the other dancers, moved apart again, circling one another in the rhythmic pattern of an English Country dance. Though it was just a dance step, Monique had the distinct impression she was being stalked. How silly to have such a thought. She shook it off and changed the subject, Tell me about yourself, Mr. Stanton.

What would you like to know?

How about your social standing? Instead, she asked, How long have you been away from England?

Nearly twenty years.

Two decades! Why so long?

Stanton's face closed off and he seemed to vanish before her eyes. Monique could not read his distant expression. I apologize. I didn't mean to pry. He blinked and his attention was on her again.

It's quite all right. When I was a young boy, my father bundled our family up and we left for the colonies to investigate a number of assets he had inherited there. We still have a house and country estate here. I plan to re-open both.

How interesting. And your father. Is he well?

My father is fine. He chose to remain behind in the United States.

What is his name?

Sir Lawrence Stanton.

Monique's hopes deflated. Sir Lawrence Stanton. The first stimulating man she had encountered this Season and he had no title. Oh, I see.

And what do you see?

How do I tell him his station isn't high enough for me to consider courtship? She smiled at him and tried to think of a tactful response. I, it's just that, I'm not acquainted with your father. But then again, I would have been very young when he left England.

I thought perhaps you meant you’d just realized I have no title.

Flustered that Stanton had divined her thoughts, she said, But, of course not. Whether you possess a title or not is of no consequence to our dance. What is important right now is that you dance very well. And he did, she mused. Where did you learn?

Charles Town and Boston are not without culture and the social graces.

If you find them satisfactory, why did you decide to return to England at this point in your life?

Because it's time I found a wife.

Chapter Two

Monique awakened to pale strains of daylight filtering through the drapes of her bedchamber. Plopping herself at her dressing table, she stared into the mirror without seeing her hesrself. She was exhausted. Sleep had eluded her last night after the ball, though the image of sharp, gray eyes had not.

The end of the Season was drawing near and for the first time in her life, Monique felt unsure of herself. This was her third Season after being presented at Court. It was common knowledge that women not married within two to three Seasons were doomed, and fear coiled around Monique's stomach at the thought. Everyone knew this was the best time of the year to find a husband.

How had time passed so quickly? Always confident she would find the right man, she had refused countless offers of marriage from scores of suitors over the years. What now dawned on her was that while she had been frolicking, all the other ladies her age had been busy snapping up the eligible men, leaving her to wonder if she had been asking for too much in a prospective husband. How was she going to solve her dilemma? If she caved in to her mother’s demands and married a man simply for his title, how could there be a happy ending for her? Tears welled in her eyes, threatening to spill over onto her cheeks.

Fine sight you are now, she chided herself. Always in control, always assured and confidant. No one would recognize you! Worse, you meet the first man to interest you and, of course, he's not suitable. She sniffled and then smiled at the image of Stanton which flitted through her mind. His wicked smile and cleft chin had caused her pulse to race. His unusual gray eyes reminded her of the sea in winter, though they filled her with the warmth of a summer day rather than a biting cold.

She had to admit, Stanton was unlike anyone else she had ever met. He was more direct than she was accustomed to, refreshing in an odd way. She thought she could probably speak her mind with him without having to couch her thoughts in ladylike civility the way she was expected to. The man seemed so vibrant compared to his counterparts. If only he had a title. He was handsome and interesting, but wholly unsuited for her. She shoved the covers away.

The problem wasn't attracting a potential husband. The problem was finding someone appropriate. Well, perhaps that wasn’t entirely true either. Her mind drifted to a list of men she had refused. There was Lord Shubert, who constantly cleared his throat. Or Lord Kelsey, who insisted on conversing with his mouth was full. She had caught Lord Tallis scratching his hind quarter when he thought no one was watching. Lord Carolson was pleasant, but took forever to get to the point. Lord Merill had a habit of sucking on his gums. She could go on.

In truth, she had been able to find fault with all of the men who had courted her. The majority of these defects were minor, she knew, and she now questioned her judgment. Perhaps the failing lay with her instead of with them.

There must be someone for me in all of England. Someone who would value her thoughts as much as her dowry and also appease her family. And that man was certain to be here in Town right now for the Season. That was it, then. She would just to have to attend more social events to locate the right man.

Monique groaned inwardly. All the parties, dinners, and theater she used to enjoy had grown so dreadfully tiring and tedious, particularly when all of the eligible men in attendance were so dull. Stanton's wicked smile crept unbidden into her thoughts again. Annoyed to find she was thinking of him, she roused herself and pushed the image firmly away, resolving to discuss her options with Lucy when they met to ride.

****

Hands clasped behind his back, Stanton stared at the dim, musty drawing room. It was odd to see it through the eyes of an adult; he had been a child the last time he was here. Heavy sheets shrouded the furniture and thick drapes blocked the sunlight from entering the room. The dark room was a stark contrast to the brilliance of the ballroom at Glenhurst Hall where he had attended the gala last evening.

An image of Lady Monique danced through his mind. The honey gold undertones of her smooth skin and flashing dark eyes were alluring in a way he found wholly appealing. But more than her appearance, it was her demeanor. There was something seductive in her calm reserve which he found enticing. As Roger L’Estrange had observed: still waters often ran deep.

Catching himself daydreaming about tangling his fingers in the ringlets of her lustrous, mahogany hair, he admonished himself. No matter his personal interest in the woman, he had vowed revenge on her family and that took precedence. He had matters to tend to and he best be about it.

His thoughts returned to the dusty room before him. He had never fully appreciated the monumental task of running a household until the last few days. It was daunting. After placing an advertisement in the paper for staff, he would interview his first candidates today.

Mr. and Mrs. Milner had been the caretakers of the house in his family's absence. Though they were elderly, they had done an adequate job in caring for the mansion. In gratitude for their service, he had given them the plum posts of housekeeper and house steward. He only hoped they were up to the task.

Stanton walked to the portrait of his mother which hung over the fireplace. Reaching up, he rubbed his finger softly across the face on the canvas. She had been young and pretty then, brimming with hope, her eyes happy. His last recollection of her was one of despair.

Mr. Stanton?

Ripped from his thoughts, Stanton spun to face Mrs. Milner.

The first candidate has arrived, Sir. He is here to interview for the valet position. Where should I place him?

Since his valet would be privy to his personal items and space, he had insisted on personally interviewing all prospective candidates for the position rather than having them screened first by the Milners. I believe the only reasonably clean spot we have available at the moment is my study.

Unfortunately, that's about the size of it. Your study is definitely the only presentable area of the house, but we'll have the situation remedied as soon as we are at full staff again, Mrs. Milner said.

I'm sure we will. I'm looking forward to it. Any luck finding suitable maids?

Yes, there have been some promising young ladies. However, she said, her voice dropping, since you expressed a mild interest in the goings on at Glenhurst Hall, I thought I should mention something.

Stanton's ears pricked up and he gave his housekeeper his full attention. Yes, what is it?

"Well, I've

Reviews for A Gentleman's Surrender

[madamediotte · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Unfortunately, I found this novel tedious at times and so I repeatedly put it down to do something else before finally reading it all. There were a few mistakes, but that's not what bothered me - it was the repetitive inner dialogues and how stiff things felt at times. There were some good parts, though, which is why I am giving this three stars.

[whiskeyinthejar-1 · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

****Full Review****

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Lady Monique is in her third season and feeling the pressure to find a match, her mother wants her to find a titled man and her brother wants one with deep pockets. When she meets the brash James Stanton, she tries to dismiss him because of his lack of title. James has been working behind the scenes to manipulate Monique into a betrothal, only to abandon her at the altar. He is out for revenge because of how Monique's mother destroyed his family. Even as everything falls into place, the plan starts to go awry as James finds himself truly falling in love with Monique. Love and revenge battle it out, and only one can win.
 
Second in the Surrender series, this can easily be read as a standalone as James and Monique's relationship starts here but others continuing with the series will enjoy the many appearances of Lucy and Philip, the couple from book one. The beginning of the story starts with James working to set-up his revenge against Monique's family. His plan is to buy up all of the family's debt, then call it all in and then become betrothed to Monique only to leave her at the altar. It wasn't until around the 40% mark that Monique and James start to spend any significant time together, so while James was well known to me, Monique was more of a background character. The beginning felt drawn out with Monique's constant refusal to consider James as a potential mate only to feel extremely rushed with their eventual declarations of "true" love. They just didn't have the interactions or conversations needed to provide believability for their feelings.
 
It was obvious that the author wanted to convey a feeling for the time period, world events and historical characters were mentioned but interjected in a way that felt like awkward reciting in paragraphs. All the regency boxes were checked with visits to Almack's, Vauxhall, White's, and Hyde Park. The characters would drop lingo from the time period too, but their overall discourse had a more modern feel. All the regency components were there but the story never quite felt rooted in the time period.
 
James' reason for revenge felt believable in the beginning, he felt Monique's mother caused his mother to die of a broken heart by having an affair with his father but as the story went on, it started to become thinner. It was, oddly, as more was explained that James' motivation seemed more and more childish and with this part of the story being the center piece, it caused me to like James less. Monique was never flushed out enough, she wanted to marry nobility because her mother told her to, and then she was suddenly in love with James; her heart, desires, and comprehensive personality were never quite clear. Their conversations were also somewhat stilted, causing the flow of the story to have a bit of a glitch-y feel.
 
A Gentleman's Surrender was a clean read that hit all the regency hallmarks and the author's writing was technically sound. I didn't entirely jive with the author's writing style but regency clean reads aren't always prevalent in this day and age, so if looking for that aspect, maybe give this one a try.