Book Description

The year is 1811 and the new rector of Hunsford, Mr William Collins, must be above reproach. He must be respectable, pious, good at losing at quadrille, and disapproving of popular novels. Above all, he must obey his terrifying patroness, Lady Catherine de Bourgh.When William’s boyhood friend Jem arrives, looking for safe harbour from the press-gangs, William’s ‘perfect clergyman’ disguise begins to slip. A farm labourer’s son, Jem is gentle and loyal, and being with him is all William wants. Soon, Jem and William renew their youthful intimacies—until Lady Catherine’s demands come between them.Can William find a way to navigate the Regency marriage market without losing his beloved Jem?This m/m historical romance is a Pride and Prejudice spin-off and features characters from the original novel by Jane Austen alongside original characters."A deeply kind retelling. I loved the warmth, the wisdom, and the way it offers a realistic but profound happy-ever-after to people who rarely get such a thing in romance." – KJ Charles, author of The Secret Lives of Country Gentlemen.“I didn’t think anyone could make me love Mr Collins, but Lee Welch has done it with this beautifully written story. Jem’s Blackbird comes to life in all his sweet awkwardness, and I couldn’t love him more if I tried.” – Lily Morton, author of My Darcy, On Circus Lane, and the Finding Home series.