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Cover of Runaway Bride

Runaway Bride

First published 1975 · 369 pages

A lively Regency romp where a defiant heiress trades her fortune for freedom, only to stumble into unexpected romantic entanglements.

What it feels like

Reading this classic Regency romance feels like embarking on a delightfully chaotic carriage ride through the English countryside. The narrative moves at a brisk, entertaining pace, propelled by the high-spirited defiance of a heroine who refuses to be a pawn in a societal game. There is a charming, escapist quality to the atmosphere, blending the cozy domesticity of a governess's life with the simmering tension of a hidden identity waiting to be uncovered. The prose is lively and traditional, capturing the witty friction between a fiery, independent woman and a masterful romantic foil. It is a thoroughly enjoyable, lighthearted adventure perfectly suited for readers who love the classic tropes of runaway heiresses, mistaken stations, and the thrilling inevitability of a hard-won, unexpected romance.

Mood
  • lively
  • escapist
  • charming
  • adventurous
Tone
  • spirited
  • playful
  • romantic
  • lighthearted
Pace
brisk
Themes
hidden identity · defying expectations · social class contrasts · unexpected romance
The writing
Classic and spirited, leaning into the witty friction and social maneuvering characteristic of traditional Regency romance.
The arc
Moves from defiant rebellion against societal constraints to the thrilling tension of unexpected romance and self-discovery.
Who it's for
Fans of classic historical romance who delight in fiery, independent heroines and the delightful chaos of hidden identities.
Content notes
  • threat of forced marriage

About the book

The romantic adventures of a reluctant Regency heiress...

When the reputable George Ferris asks for Miss Jennifer Purhcas's hand in marriage, Jennifer's Uncle and George's eccentric aunt, the Duchess of Lewes, believe the match is a perfect one.

However, no one thinks to ask for Jennifer's feelings on the matter.

As it turns out, the high-spirited and defiant Regency heriess insists there is no way she will be forced to marry the odious George Ferris, whom she has never even met.

Running away she joins the Laverstoke family as a a penniless governess.

However, it is not long before the naturally fiery Jennifer finds herself in some difficult to explain situations, all too frequently witnessed by the masterful Mainwaring, guardian to the Laverstoke children.

But that is only the beginning of Jennifer's adventures, and with her Uncle determined to seek out and reclaim his missing niece - and her fortune - it becomes increasingly difficult to keep her true identity hidden from the world...

Description from Open Library.

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