#a rake a spinster and an arrangement

[lcndonboysstuff]

do you have any favourites?

Yes! All HRs

"Lord of Scoundrels" by Loretta Chase : This one is easily a classic. You are gonna love the heroine, Jessica Trent. She absolutely takes no nonsense, and is very witty, very take charge heroine. The hero is very intimidating to others but not to her, and haha it's hilarious. Loretta Chase weaves every element perfectly - hilarity, wit, love, some sadness. Pls read this. Jessica is one of my most favorite heroines out there. There are multiple iconic scenes, but the scene where they meet, and the glove scene and the rain scene, and many others are my fav.

"What I Did For A Duke" by Julie Anne Long: This book is a delight! There is a very very very beautifully executed love triangle, so if that's not your thing, then absolutely fine, but love triangles aren't my things either (and I think I picked up this one cause I didn't know beforehand that there was going to be one). But this book is too good to worry about that. The hero, Duke of Moncrieffe, is a mature bastard (and I say that lovingly), and the heroine is smart herself. There's a scene where she lays down the hero's plan piece by piece to him, and he's like yeah, I planned to do this but now you know! Haha! This is one of those books where the heroine finds her voice too.

"Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake" by Sarah McLean: The heroine, Callie, is a spinster and one of impeccable character (no scandals!), so she goes on to list down 9 things she'd like to experience, like kissing someone, going to a tavern etc😂. So she went to her crush's house (crush of 10 freaking years!) and asked him to kiss her🤣. Well, you know the rest. Most Sarah McLean's books aren't quite historically accurate tho, but her writing is superb and draws you into the story, which are fun to read.

"A Wallflower Wager" by Tessa Dare: God this is hilarity incarnated or what! Heroine, Penny, is what you call quirky. She is awesome, and I'm biased towards her cause she's vegetarian, like myself, lol. She is an animal lover, and despite being an earl's daughter and living in the middle of Mayfair, she keeps like a dozen of animals (there is a list of animals she has rescued and given shelter in her home, and the hero is abso-freaking-lutely flummoxed after seeing that). One of the animals or birds is a parrot called Delilah, and IS SHE A CHARACTER! The hero is so sweet, too. He arranges a ball, and sets only vegetarian dishes on the menu, cause of her!!!!!!!!!

"10 Things I Hate About the Duke" by Loretta Chase: I love Loretta Chase. The heroine, Cassandra, is feared by all. She has a scathing tongue, and will not hold back. The hero, Duke of Ashmont, is a rake as rakes come. He is unhinged, in a funny and lovable way, and there was an incident at the very beginning, after which he's always like "Will you just for the love of God marry me?!" And she's like, "No, wtf! Absolutely not. My life will be miserable." And he's like, "Yea that's always great to hear😒." There's a scene where they were out at night together, and she needs a distraction to get inside her house, so he pretends to be drunk and sings a bawdy song outside.😂

Read the one (or multiple ones👀) that resonate with you the most! Then do tell how you liked or disliked it.♡

i think the first one is speaking to me the most.

not the second one because i cannot stand most love triangles. i feel like in the majority of them it’s so obvious which one the girl actually likes so what is the point lol.

[mermaidsirennikita]

Can you suggest any romance novels with a male Virgin?

Oh for sure, I love a virgin romance hero.

Historicals:

In Which Margo Halifax Earns Her Scandalous Reputation by Alexandra Vasti--free on Alexandra's website, super fun and sexy, brother's best friend; the heroine is not a virgin, ver scandalous, and bi; the hero has been in love with her for seven years!!!

Band Sinister by KJ Charles--m/m, one of the heroes is a total rake and the other is a virgin who's very sheltered

Hotel of Secrets by Diana Biller--heroine is not a virgin, owns and is trying to rehabilitate this Viennese hotel, hero is an American spy who's incredibly closed off to others and therefore a virgin; he's very starched and becomes QUITE unstarched

Her Lessons in Persuasion by Megan Frampton--lighthearted but sexy fake dating vibe, both leads are virgins

Something Fabulous by Alexis Hall--m/m; the flamboyant, flirty one is not a virgin--the stern one is

Thief of Shadows by Elizabeth Hoyt--one of my all time favorites, virgin schoolmaster/vigilante hero with an older, experienced widow heroine; she blows him while they're hiding in plain sight and they both cry, it's AMAZING

Unclaimed by Courtney Milan--good-hearted man declares publicly that he won't lose his virginity until he's in love, evil guy who hates him hires a sex worker to seduce and ruin him

Paranormal/Fantasy:

A Lesson in Thorns by Sierra Simone--this series (which the book begins) has an mmf pairing, with everyone involved being a virgin; very kinky, queer, and Gothic

The King's Spinster Bride by Ruby Dixon--hero and heroine have an arranged marriage deal, he's younger than her, and they're both virgins. It's REAL GOOD.

Mating the Huntress by Talia Hibbert--sweet virgin werewolf finds his mate in a werewolf huntress

Dark Needs at Night's Edge by Kresley Cole--blood-crazed virgin vampire gets locked in a New Orleans home by his brothers for detox, falls for for former burlesque dancer ghost lady. Another all time favorite.

Pestilence by Laura Thalassa--the four horsemen of the apocalypse come to earth, Pestilence picks up a random, and he's a VIRGIN

Contemporary:

The Bride Test by Helen Hoang--hero is on the autism spectrum and his mom basically tries to set him up in an arranged marriage to a single mom; very lovely and emotional

Also, a LOT of the Ice Planet Barbarian books have virgin heroes!

[thekatebridgerton]

I can't help thinking about an AU where Kate is Anthony's mistress.

Or they're rival ballet companies.

You guys are my witnesses Anon brought it up first.

I imagine this wu going along the lines of what is currently happening in the fic I'm writing. Where one day Kate just jumps Anthony and decides he's good in the sheets and wow really good. She definitely wouldn't say no to more of that thing he does with his hips.

And so just as Anthony is getting ready to do the right thing, Kate propositions him with a "Get rid of Sienna, I'm your mistress now. and get on with the program" arrangement. Which is basically just Kate, making the decisions in their relationship without letting him have a word in

Of course Kate began this secret mistress arrangement for fun because she didn't think that the guy who's currently so insistent on courting her own sister would be super excited to marry the less pretty Sharma girl. But also he's good in bed and until Edwina's Prince Friedrich gets on with proposing and taking their family to Prussia. Kate is left bored and annoyed during every single ball she attends

Anthony knows this. He knows Kate is playing him. He knows she's using him to stave off her boredom and distract him from dancing with her sister. But he can't help but be drawn to her. Gosh their banter is the best form of foreplay he's ever had. And watching those Bridgerton blue gems in Kate's neck really turns him on and makes him want to shower her with even more jewels.

Kate, well, don't judge her. It's her first time mistressing. She didn't know how one went about getting to the ' being showered in luxury by your patron' part of the deal. But Anthony seems to have a road map to it in that regard. It's like he has his own schedule. Monday is jewelry, Tuesday silk stockings, Wednesday shoes, Thursdays perfumes, Fridays dresses and Saturdays are to see her wear it all for his pleasure. If Kate keeps this arrangement going for longer than a month she's going to have the entire Bridgerton treasury in her room.

They both think they have a buisness arrangement based on greed and explosive mutual attraction. And that what they feel for each other isn't love. But the more time they spend together, the harder it is to pretend that's all there is between them.

Oh dear little do they know that Prince Friedrich proposal to Edwina may come sooner than they realize and Anthony will have to decide if he wants to let Kate become a spinster in Prussia. Or a Rakes' wife in England.

[teamtargaryenapologinist]

Anthony Bridgerton

Drabbles

Headcannons

One Shots

Stubbornly, Irritatingly

summary: it’s not easy to help the viscount find a wife when he continues to reject every woman you introduce. it turns out he has a better reason for it than you realize.

Right in Front of Me

Summary: The only way he could rationally find a suitable wife was by removing love from the equation all together. Courtship was game of jumping through hoops he really did not want to play, and he was a Viscount. Surely there would be a father with a more than suitable daughter he could simply ask for your hand and get it. Or the one where your arranged marriage with Anthony Bridgerton isn’t a loving marriage… until it is.

Aching Soul

Summary:  There is a difference between Viscount Bridgerton and Anthony Bridgerton. One is a Rake. The other is a man, broken by his father's death, who has never really been able to be just Anthony. Y/N knows the feeling all too well

A Long, Long Time

Summary: Y/N has waited a long, long time for Anthony Bridgerton to finally decide to get married. But by the time he finally decides to find a wife, Y/N has run out of time and Anthony is suddenly faced with losing her to someone else.

It’s a Bad Idea, Me and You

Summary: Y/N was ready to give her entire heart to Anthony Bridgerton. Only for him to shove her aside in favour for Sienna Russo. But, now, Sienna is gone and despite what Y/N keeps telling herself - Anthony truly does own her heart.

Lover

Summary: To love a viscount is to be at the mercy of the ton at every ball and gathering - especially one Cressida Cowper. Sometimes, it really does feel like you’re going to your execution.

I’ll Look After You (But I Won’t Stop Complaining About It)

Summary: four times Anthony protected his sister and the one time she protected him (albeit it was from the ton)

Nothing Ever Lasts Forever

Summary: Anthony Bridgerton refused to even entertain the idea that Y/N Elliot could become his viscountess. She was the perfect woman and a perfect friend. But that was precisely the problem. If he married her, he wouldn't be able to stop himself from falling in love - and he'd made a vow to himself, that that would be the last thing he'd do.

Series

Benedict Bridgerton

Drabbles

Headcannons

One Shots

Show Me Love

Summary: Every time Benedict is alone, Y/N appears. Every time Benedict looks away, Y/N disappears. All Benedict wants to do is draw her in person and not from memory.

She’s A Lady

Summary: Y/N isn’t considered a proper ‘lady’ by members of the ton yet one Benedict Bridgerton would disagree with them all. Even if she did swoon into his arms.

Series

Colin Bridgerton

Drabbles

Geode

Headcannons

One Shots

Oh God, It’s You

Summary: Y/N has been in love with Colin Bridgerton for years. The year she makes her debut, however, Marina Thompson appears and Y/N has to watch as her one true love is stolen away.

Your Song

Summary: Being in love with Colin Bridgerton is hard when the man keeps running off to different continents for months at a time. But the letters he writes and the songs he sends keep the romance alive.

Part 2

It’s A Love Story

Summary: Y/N has loved Colin since they were children but it was one-sided. She was content to stand aside and watch Colin move on without her. Until Marina.

Series

Bridgerton Family

Drabbles

Headcannons

One Shots

It’s A Bugs Life

Summary: Gregory and bugs and the antics his older sister somehow manages to get into to support his weird hobby.

Driver’s License

Summary: It’s hard to be in love only to be tossed to the side in a instant. Thank God for older brothers and mothers. 

Spinster

Summary: Love isn’t for everyone. Sometimes, borrowing your brother’s children and being content with becoming a spinster is all anyone needs.

Blue Complexion

Summary: Anthony’s brooding and Y/N demands to know why. The why just happens to involve her and an unwanted marriage proposal.

Brother Knows Best

Summary: Anthony has, finally, put Lord Berbrooke in his place and allowed his sister to control her own life. except, Lord Berbrooke is determined to marry a Bridgerton... even if it isn't Daphne

Ope There Goes Gravity

Summary: Y/N Bridgerton was not in the gardens at the Trowbridge Ball. She had no idea of what transpired. Yet, somehow, she ends up in the middle of a duel, in an empty park, at dawn. And it’s all Daphne’s fault.

Series

Your Highness

Summary: This series follows Y/N Bridgerton, a Bridgerton sister who falls in love with Prince Friedrich against all odds. (Courting Cuteness)

Part 1  Part 2  Part 3  Part 4  Part 5

I’ll Be In Ruins For You

Summary: This series follows Y/N Bridgerton, a Bridgerton sister who falls in love with Prince Friedrich against all odds. (True Love Angst)

Part 1  Part 2  Part 3  Part 4  Part 5  Part 6

Bonus

pregnancy and post-pregnancy

their life in london (ft. dad club)

how i met your father

wedding night

[the-book-queen]

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She's an industrialist who wants to lose her virginity before an arranged marriage, and seeks out a gentleman courtesan. They later end up stormed in at a cottage together.

Historical Romance (MF) | https://amzn.to/3wqg0of

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After a cheating ex makes her lose her role, she finds a position with the Australian National Ballet. He is also a dancer in the company, trying to recover from an injury.

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$0.99 ✦ Silver Seconds by Stella Banks

1st POV. She's a 45yo divorcee who inherited a bakery. She drunk-kissed a stranger at the bar, only to find out he's only in town to get her to sell the bakery.

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[listening-to-free-audiobooks]

Earls of England Series by Angela Johnson

The Earl of Arundel, A Regency Romance 

Arranged Marriage with a mystery

Phillip Watson, Earl of Arundel is a lover of literature and music. Anyone viewing his family from the outside would think he lived a privileged life. But privilege comes with expectations, and Phillip finds himself engaged to a woman he never considered a match. Accepting his duty, Phillip agrees to the engagement until he nearly dies in an ill-fated accident and is left with amnesia.

Finding himself in an unfamiliar place, without knowledge of his duty or inheritance, Phillip falls for the lovely Miss Emma Parker. Her knowledge of Shakespeare and love of reading make her a perfect match. But when Phillip discovers he is engaged to marry another, and this engagement hinges on an ill-advised bet, he finds the consequences of ending the engagement to be harsher than a ruined reputation.

As Phillip's memories return, he knows it would be akin to death to marry where there is no love. Can he find a way to break the engagement without losing the bet for his father? Or will he adhere to the expectations of his station and marry out of duty?

Saved by Scandal, A Regency Romance 

Scandal should be avoided at all costs unless it serves a purpose.

Lady Charlotte needs to find a match before her father finds one for her. As her family hosts an annual house party, Charlotte's choices lie between Lord Riley, a notorious rake, and Lord Haughton, a new acquaintance. Preferring life as a spinster to a marriage with Riley, Charlotte chooses the latter as the man to marry, but her plans take a turn as Lady Ruby draws Haughton's eyes and heart in her direction.

Garrett Calder, Earl of Haughton, is confused over his feelings for two women. Mesmerized by Ruby's emerald eyes, pouty plush lips, and sweet demeanor, it is easy for him to overlook the other woman vying for his attention. Charlotte's calm sensible personality is attractive, but not hypnotic. When she is near, his heart and mind tell him she is the right choice, but when Ruby is near, he forgets everyone and everything by losing himself in her eyes.

Lady Ruby is charged with marrying money to save her family from ruin. Her father mismanaged an investment, plunging their family into debt and in need of an advantageous match. Lord Haughton is the wealthiest single man at the current house party, which makes him Ruby's target. Knowing a proposal might never happen without help, her father convinces Ruby to manipulate circumstances and claim scandal from an innocent kiss while knowing his daughter's heart belongs to another.

Lord Haughton finds himself the center of scandal with two ladies. Unable to marry both, the decision of courtship and marriage is taken out of his hands, resulting in the realization of his feelings and finding it might be too late to be with the woman he loves.

[melanoradrood]

EPISODE 7 : Worlds Away

A loss within the Potter family brings everyone together, even while others spread apart. Accusations of lies and betrayal form a rift between the newlyweds. Others, meanwhile, have their secrets finally revealed.

Chapter 33 : Mistakes

"You're drunk."

Draco paused at the top step and turned slowly to look towards the Duchess's chambers. Hermione had never inhabited them when they were last in London, seeing as how he had been residing at Nottingham House and they had left after the wedding. He had imagined, time and again, just what she would do with that bedroom.

After all, they were to share his rooms. His rooms were darker in the morning, had the larger softer bed, and he had had no intention of allowing her to be far from him, ever. Her rooms, well, the Duchess's rooms, had such a natural light to them, he had imagined her sitting on a chaise, reading, while he was on his knees devouring her...

Now, he wondered if he would ever see her within those rooms. Now, he wondered if she would ever again be in his bed.

"I am not," he answered slowly, careful to hide any slur to his tone. He could understand why she would assume that he was drunk, given how he must smell like liquor, but—"I have sobered up before returning home."

"Why?" she asked, forcing him to look at her once more.

He had not intended to do so. In fact, every step up the large staircase, he had reminded himself to simply turn right once he reached the landing and enter his own room. He hadn't wanted to look her way and see her door shut. He had been trying to spare himself from his regret and his longing. He had been trying...

Well, it was futile now, and so, he allowed his gaze to pass over her.

He wished it had not.

READ IT ALL ON AO3 READ IT ALL ON WATTPAD

[thegrangerarchives]

A Rake, A Spinster, and An Arrangement by @melanoradrood

Rules are the very foundation of Regency London. Everyone is raised to them, and they understand their role, their purpose. A young marriageable lady must make the best choice for her future and her family. A young lord must make the best selection for healthy heirs and a sizeable dowry.

Enter Hermione (Granger) Potter. Having previously avoided a number of seasons, she knows that if she is to achieve her dreams, she must make a match, and quickly, lest her secret become too much for gossip to handle. An advantageous match, made quickly, can save her from becoming a Spinster, and allow her the life she desires. She must attract attention... but only the right kind.

Meanwhile, Draco Malfoy, Duke of Wiltshire, has no interest in marrying. In fact, the very last thing he wants is to attract the attention of any woman - but, it seems as though his friends will no longer allow him to sit outside of society, brooding far away from his responsibility. They insist he must court, if not wed. The answer, when it falls into his lap, is Hermione Granger.

Rated: M; Chapters: 2/?; Words: 7230

→ Links: Archive of Our Own and Wattpad

[artofcrumbs]

Dramione Bridgerton AU 🐍🖤

First meeting of Lady Hermione and the Duke of Wiltshire, Draco Malfoy ❤️

Bonus Panville ✨🖤🌿

Dowager Duchess— Lady Parkinson and Duke of Montrose, Neville Longbottom 🥺🥺🥺

From the fic “A Rake, A Spinster and An Arrangement” by @melanoradrood

[forzalando]

The Perfect Arrangement | George Weasley | Pt. 1

Pairing: George Weasley x F!Reader AU: Bridgerton!AU Word Count: 2.1k Warnings: Bridgerton spoilers, mentions of alcohol

Summary: As a woman in the early 19th century, you’ve been told all your life that marriage should be your ultimate goal, however, you do not share that sentiment. When the insufferable George Weasley devises a plan that may solve your problems, how can you say no?

A/N: hi friends! this will be a multipart (probably 3-4 parts) George fic inspired by Bridgerton. i’m so excited for it and i hope you all are too :) thank you for reading!

The start of the social season had been, as you had expected, the topic of conversation around the ton for the past few weeks. It was impossible to go anywhere without hearing whispers of who would snag an engagement in the next few months.

Particularly, people had been interested in who the Queen would declare the “diamond of the season”. Your mother was positively convinced it would be you, but you had other plans in mind for your life other than parties and dresses and loveless marriage. However, when the Queen took one look upon your face, she quickly declared you incomparable, as she had done the same for Daphne Bridgerton, now the Duchess, a few years prior, and your fate was sealed.

As a member of the distinguished and esteemed Y/L/N family, and as the eldest daughter, you had a trivial, yet necessary and important role to play, even if you longed to free yourself from it. Your mother and father, as wonderful as they might be, had high expectations for you, and you would not and could not let them down.

Your mother fluffed your hair and primped your dress in preparation of the Danbury Ball, admiring you fondly and gushing about how beautiful you looked.

“Maybe your luck will be as wonderful as the Duchess, her love match was indeed unprecedented but oh so joyous. Do you think your fortune might align with hers, dear?”

“Mama,” you sighed. “I have no interest in a life like the Duchess’s. All the parties, teas, and properness. Besides, there isn’t another Duke for me to marry.”

“I did not mean that you would have to marry a Duke to share her fate; only that you may marry for love.”

You huffed as you turned away from the mirror. In truth, you had no interest in marrying for love, or marrying at all for that matter, but the duty of an eldest daughter was set in stone.

All too soon, you arrived at the Lady Danbury’s spectacular first ball of the season; the sea of gowns and tailored coats causing a queasy feeling to settle in your stomach, and you wished with all your might that anything at all would ruin the festivities.

A glass of champagne was placed in your grasp and you let your eyes wander around the room; Lady Eloise Bridgerton, a close friend of yours, donned a similar look on her face though her mother enthusiastically tried to get her to waltz across the dance floor.

Glancing to your left, you noticed Lord Farley, a rather grotesque older man, eyeing you up and down; his beady eyes causing the queasy feeling to return and for your feet to take off in what could almost be considered a sprint.

When he was no longer in your line of sight, you began to slow down your gait, but a shoulder roughly bumped into yours and an unattractive yelp escaped your lips.

The unmistakable chuckle that followed your outburst made you groan due to your detestation of the man you knew you had bumped into.

Lord George Weasley; a man, nay, a boy, with hair of fire and a wit to match. You had known him for years as you were the same age and his sister Ginevra was the best of friends with your younger sister.

“I want to believe, Miss Y/L/N, that you would not take such drastic measures to capture my attention, but I must say I am flattered nonetheless,” George teased, his hand reaching out to steady you as you recovered from the collision.

“Mr. Weasley, I believe you to know me better than that,” you spoke with gritted teeth as you swatted his hand away. “Besides, there are plenty of young women here that would kiss the ground you walk on. Might you bother them instead?”

“Ah, but where is the fun in that? I’ve noticed that you still have room on your dance card?”

“I always have room left on my dance card.”

You tried to step around George and escape his company, but his impossible height made it so easy for him to evade your attempts.

“Is that by choice or because you’re just so pleasant to spend time with?” he inquired with a smirk.

“Suppose a bit of both. Now, if you would be so kind, I’m quite parched and would love another glass of champagne.”

“Perfect, I shall accompany you.”

George Weasley, you surmised very early on, was nothing but a flirt. You wouldn’t go so far as to call him a rake, because as far as you knew he was an honorable man, but he was also most intolerable with his boyish charm, sense of humor, beautiful eyes…

Yes, you were quite sure that he was entirely intolerable.

“Have you told your mother you have no interest in procuring a husband, yet?” he mused, breaking you out of your trance as he carefully handed you a glass of champagne.

“Don’t call it procuring as if it’s a transaction. And no, I haven’t. Do you think I’d be standing here alive if I had?”

“Good point,” George hummed as his eyes surveyed the room, no doubt searching for the next woman so unlucky enough to be graced with his presence.

“How is your family?” you asked as you sipped on your flute of bubbling liquid.

“They’re doing well, thank you for asking. Work has been a bit hard on Dad but – ”

Before George could finish, a man approached you and bowed; taking the hand not holding the champagne flute and pressing a kiss to your knuckles.

“Miss Y/L/N, would you like to join me for a dance?”

You noticed George looking on angrily at the sight before him, probably because his ego couldn’t take the interruption.

“I’m flattered, Lord Rainier? I believe?” When you received no objections, you continued. “As I was saying, I’m flattered by your offer but I simply must decline. I am feeling a bit ill and all that spinning might make me sick.”

“Yes, yes, of course, Miss Y/L/N. Perhaps another time?”

You gave him a small, soft smile and let out a sigh of relief when he walked away. Turning back to George, you urged him to continue. While you held him in contempt, or so you told yourself, you did enjoy his family as they were all simply lovely.

“You were saying, George?”

“Right, work has been a bit hard on Dad, after his accident a few months ago. He’s been doing better but Charlie had to take a break from his travels to come home and help out since he’s the eldest. Fred and Angelina are expecting again, if you haven’t heard. They’re hoping for a girl this time.”

“Maybe if you were more like your brother you’d be married and having children by now,” you teased.

He gasped and clutched his hand over his heart, drawing the attention of anyone near.

“You wound me, Y/N.”

Much to your dismay, you laughed at his actions, devastated that you gave him the satisfaction of knowing he was entertaining you. However, the moment was short lived as another man interrupted your conversation.

“Miss Y/N, I must say you are looking exquisite this evening. It would be a shame for your dress not to take a twirl on the dance floor. Might I accompany you?”

You tried not to groan when you noticed a line forming behind the man currently asking for a dance.

“Actually, Lord Beverly, I’m feeling a bit warm. I was just about to go outside for some fresh air.”

“I shall accompany you, then.”

“Without a chaperone? Goodness, no, please find another young lady to dance with. There are certainly many that would be delighted at the chance.”

You looked around Lord Beverly to see at least four other men waiting for their chance to ask you for a dance, and the thought of making up more excuses made your head spin. You graciously bid Lord Beverly a good evening, and turned on your heel towards the nearest exit.

In your haste, you did not notice George following you into the gardens.

“Well, you sure like to let them down easy,” he joked.

“George!” you cried. “We can’t be seen alone, are you daft? Trying to ruin me and my family?”

“Calm yourself, my Mother is just right there.”

You looked a bit to George’s left and saw his wonderful mother keeping a careful eye on the two of you, graciously leaving the attention of her husband to ensure that none would suspect foolery between you and George.

“As I was saying, it’s awfully obvious that you do not want any man to court you. Your mother will realize well and soon enough of your…aversion to marriage.”

“The only reason you know that is because you eavesdropped on a conversation I had with Eloise. But yes, I have no desire to marry, and I’m quite certain I never will. I’ll have to fight off suitors and think of a million excuses until I’m considered a spinster and men no longer want me.”

Silence enveloped you both as a tear slid down your cheek. You hastily wiped it away, hoping that George hadn’t seen, but of course, you were not so lucky.

“Is the idea of marriage really that upsetting to you, Y/N?”

“All those men, all they want is a woman to wear on their arm and to give them children. That’s what a woman’s life is in marriage. A husband doesn’t care about his wife’s passions, desires, intellect, among other things, and I can’t bring myself to entertain the idea of a life that has no room for my happiness.”

George was quiet; pondering your response and your feelings, when he was suddenly struck with the most brilliant of ideas.

You see, Mr. George Weasley was in love with Miss Y/N Y/L/N, has been for several years in fact. He couldn’t tell you exactly when or why, but he knew that the fluttering in his chest and the way his whole world became brighter when she entered a room meant that Y/N was more than just someone to engage in friendly banter with.

“I’ve thought of an idea,” George muttered, piquing your interest.

“Whatever might it be, Mr. Weasley?”

“Your…situation, can only go away if men were to believe you were taken, correct?”

“Yes, I suppose, only I can’t fool them into thinking that. It would become quite suspicious when I’m seen alone everywhere. And, there’s no way I could ever fool my parents.”

“Except you wouldn’t be alone, you’d have me!”

“I don’t believe I’m following your idea, George.”

“Marry me.”

You choked and sputtered on your own spit, unable to take a breath through your coughs and gasps. George’s hands flew to your shoulders to steady you, helping you to breathe easier and calm yourself down.

“George, you must be joking,” you said quietly.

“I am as deadly serious as I could ever be. Not a real marriage, of course. Real in every sense of the word in terms of legality, but not real as in, well, us together. I’ll spend this social season courting you, and at the end of the season I’ll propose. We’ll get married in a few months’ time, and then we can travel the world, doing whatever our hearts desire.”

“Why on earth would you want to marry me?”

“It’s quite simple. You need to get the eligible bachelors of the ton to leave you alone and you never want to marry because your husband would restrict your freedoms. I, as your husband, wouldn’t dare. You’re not entirely awful, I suppose there are far worse people to spend my life with, even if you utterly despise me, and marriage, real marriage, isn’t something I want either.”

You looked at him quizzically, searching for signs that he’d had far too much champagne or had gone completely mad in the head, but he looked right as rain, and your mind was spinning.

“I find it hard to believe you do not want to marry, after all the times you’ve said you cannot wait to marry the woman you love.”

“Honestly, the woman I love is….unattainable, I’ll put it that way. I won’t ever love anyone but her. I’m also waiting for an answer, it’s not every day you have to have a discussion after a proposal.”

“You’re sure this will work, Mr. Weasley?”

“How hard can it be to pretend to be in love with a woman as beautiful as you?”

“I always knew you were a flirt, but God, do you lay it on thick.”

George looked at you expectantly, almost a glimmer of hope is his eye, but as quickly as you thought you’d noticed it, he looked away.

“My answer is yes, George. Let’s fool the ton, our families, court, get married, and then travel the world platonically.”

“That sounds like the perfect arrangement, darling.”

@theweasleyslut @vivacesole @weasleyclaw @nuttytani-reblogs @theweasleysredhair @hufflepuffbaby9 @theboywhocriedlupin @swellwriting @fortisfiliae @thoseofgreatambition @woakiees @wildfire-whizbangs @gcdric

please let me know if you’d like to be added to my taglist! 

[starfoxrry]

Royalty/Regency AU Fic Rec

or fics where Harry and Louis are both royalty/noblemen 

1. don't want no other shade of blue (43k) by padfootyoudog

“I know you’re putting on an act,” says Harry after a moment, and Louis scowls when he realises the prince is actually amused.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” says Louis.

“All I’ve heard over the past couple of years are rumours of Prince Louis’ kindness, and generosity, and oh, he’s so handsome I can barely pour his tea without shaking!” says Harry, putting on a silly, high-pitched voice for the last bit. Louis’ scowl deepens. “I would already know if you were just another selfish, bratty omega prince. You can’t fool me, darling, but I admire your efforts.”

“As you said,” Louis grits out, “those are only rumours. I assure you, I’m a terrible person.”

—

prompt 339: it was foretold that Alpha Prince Harry would be mated to a beautiful male omega with eyes that could rival the stone amethyst, but Omega Prince Louis refuses to believe it.

2. Violent Delights (76k) by ohpleaselarry

Prince Harry is arranged to mate Princess Charlotte, but first he must spend a month completing courting traditions which ends in a mating ceremony. When he arrives to the Tomlinson castle, he finds the forbidden North wing holds that which the family has worked hard to keep secret. Mainly: the sickly sweet Prince Louis, who’s rare gender has forced his family to keep him locked away for his own protection.

(ABO princes au)

3. Mead of Poetry (65k) by MyEnglishRose

Under the pressure of continuing the Styles viscountcy line now that he is getting older, Harry sets himself three rules to finally settle down and marry: firstly, the omega needs to be reasonably attractive, secondly, they must be of great mind, thirdly, they cannot be anyone he would ever fall in love with.

Enters Charlotte Tomlinson, the diamond of the first water of the upcoming season and seemingly the perfect candidate to the viscount’s plan, but her omega brother, Louis, is in Harry’s way. Louis only seeks to protect his sister and he sure is not going to let a rake play with her heart.

Or. A Regency ABO AU very loosely inspired by the second book of the Bridgerton series, "The Viscount Who Loved Me".

4. Lightning Strikes The Heart (130k) by fournipplesau, Bekita

Shrewsbury, 1814

Dearest reader, I present to you your new bulletin of news regarding Shrewsbury citizen's activities. My name is Lady Merriweather and I will be in charge of the updates. I will make sure you are to know all the important details of what is to happen this season. You must know that you do not know who I am and you never shall. But be forewarned; I certainly do know you. I advise you to be on your best behaviour, lest you want the whole town to be privy of your business.

As expected every year, the Lockhart House hosts the season’s opening ball, and its invitation is the motive of the hustle in town, and every family hopes for the invitation. This year is no different, but this year everyone's attention is focused on the new Duke of Montgomery, His Grace Harry Edward Styles, and whether he will attend it.

All the omegas will be in their best manner, behaviour and clothes as it is expected. And here, dear reader is where we will find out which young omega might succeed at securing a match, hoping to not become a spinster.

Place your bets.

5. If I Loved You Less (36k) by allwaswell16

Beautiful omega Louis Tomlinson is set to make his come out in London society and determined to find a mate in his first Season. With the help and protection of his oldest friend, Lord Niall Mendes, he takes Society by storm.

Being a wealthy and titled alpha means Lord Harry Styles has grown used to avoiding unmated omegas...until now. This Season he finds himself at every Society event just for a chance to speak with the omega with the flashing blue eyes.

Louis has the aristocracy at his feet and all the suitors he could hope for, but his secrets may ruin his chance at a love match.

6. Lean On My Shoulder (I See Myself With You) (19k) by Jennifer_Kaid

Speaking of the views, there was someone on his balcony. The sun was still setting, making this person look even more ethereal. They seemed to be at content at being alone. Harry watched as they watered the plants, they certainly didn't look like they were amongst the help.

Curiosity got the best of him and he decided to invade this stranger's quiet time; the Prince could be selfish sometimes.

-

"When you love something, you help them grow.”

7.  Falling Down For You (14k) by theweightofmywords

If there was an alpha that Louis wanted to call his, it would be Harry. But what happens when an arranged marriage, a hungry press, and doubts get in the way?

8. Compete Against the Stars (30k) by amomentoflove

“We should probably keep our distance,” Harry says, now backing up until he’s leaning against the wall opposite of Louis. It already feels too far away. “I don’t know if I can handle not being able to touch you in some small way.”

Louis nods and looks down. “The solstice will be here soon,” he murmurs.

“And with it, our mates,” Harry finishes, his voice cracking at the last word.

An ABO au where Louis finds out he's claimed to another Alpha. Angst ensues.

[heartineyes]

Regency Draco-Hermione Inspired by melanoradrood's A Rake, A Spinster, and An Arrangement https://www.archiveofourown.org/works/28991673 and

AuroraAustralice ' s The Devil Duke and Miss Granger

https://www.archiveofourown.org/works/28695819/chapters/70351704

[weird-crackship]

A Heartfelt post about Phillip and Eloise aka when an introvert meets an extrovert (Spoilers talk!)

As a huge Phillip+Eloise lover it truly pains me to read some people ought to dismiss their love story just because they dont like the pairing, thus, makes it okay to omit them and change their dynamics. It is so disrepectful to the people who LOVE this pairing. Common arguments I read (going through Reddit) are:

1. Eloise acted out of character. People are livid that spunky, rebel Eloise did not go to a University but instead “settled down” with a boring single dad who doesnt even spend time with his kids. Seems like people want her to be Arya Stark and go sail to some unknown lands and be a badass monster-slayer. Going the traditional route of MARRIAGE to someone like Eloise is just unimaginable! To be fair though, can anyone blame Eloise for marrying Phillip Crane? The guy is described to be MASSIVE and ELEMENTAL. If Im Eloise - University be damned I’ll move in quickly too and be Phillip’s wife and mother his children! Kidding aside, the fact that Phillip Crane is also described to be a botanist and an academic (also known in modern terms as HOT NERD) will truly understand Eloise wanting to gain more knowledge and go to a University. In fact, I bet he will be the one to even suggest and make arrangements for it to happen.

2. Controversial argument: Marina in the show is a WOC and making her miserable to the point of death just to make room for a boring white pairing does not sit well to some. They prefer for Marina to have her happy ending with Phillip while Eloise does whatever she wants, like be a lesbian. But the thing is, Marina in the books is not even a WOC so Netflix brought this upon themselves. If I didnt read the books, I would totally LOVE for Marina to be happy as I am a sucker of the arrange-marriage-eventually-falling-in-love trope. But the core of the story is already laid out. I do hope though that they tackle depression in such a respectful manner.

3. Phillip is a terrible and lazy father since he’d rather spend time with his plants than with his kids and just leave the work to Eloise and/or the house help. This is, to be fair, the entire crutch of his character - he is scared to be just like his father and do something wrong so he shuts himself out. There are people who’d rather not “be involved” because of the fear of doing something wrong. It is stupid, yes, but it truly happens. Think of absentee fathers. The more you read through it, the more you realize he really is trying but doesnt know how. However, the fact that by the end he had made himself available to his kids is such a character growth. A huge character growth.

Seems like people also forget that Eloise in the book isnt the 17 year old girl we see in the show. She is 28 during the events of To Sir Phillip With Love. She had a quarterlife crisis of the fear of being left behind since Penelope’s marriage threw her off the loop. She was relying on her best friend for spinster companionship. But love has other plans for Penelope and now, for the first time, Eloise felt that she is alone. And knowing Eloise to be someone who is going take action, of course she will go to someone who can offer her a solution, and for that, I totally understand why she acted out of her whim.

Phillip Crane as a love interest is so unlike the “I am a rake but when I got married I became reformed and now I love my wife dearly” which was the theme of the other books. Phillip is a NERD (a hot one though). This just makes it all the more special, intriguing and interesting because he truly did not know what to do with Eloise the first time they met. It is like the hot, popular, extrovert girl falling for the silent, brooding, introvert scholar. Their first meeting is so awkward when they were in the drawing room and both have nothing to say. That is so believable. And that is also the reason I love this book. It is the most realistic out of the Bridgerton books.

As you can tell I just love them. And I hope Netflix dont change the pairing just because a few voices wanted Eloise to not get married or for whatever agenda. Im so protective of them and Ill be so disappointed if I won’t see them come to life. 😢

[maybe-theres-hope]

Tarlos Period Drama AU

So @howtosingit received an ask about a Tarlos Bridgerton AU, and to be honest I’ve just binged the whole thing so I commented on that post saying I’d attempt it. 

But here’s the thing. I couldn’t make it work with Regency Era. I just...couldn’t. So I have placed them in The Gilded Age in America. If you’re familiar with it, I want you to know that I’m not going to include any ridiculous corruption or monopolies that really...defined the era. Moreso I’m putting them in a time where I think the clothes are pretty, and the aesthetic fits my needs. Everything in this will be very fun and mostly lighthearted with only the perfect amount of angst to satisfy period drama tropes. It will be at times inaccurate, and other times shamelessly self indulgent. Tropes galore.

I also said I would attempt a one-shot but....yeah. This will be...rather long. LOL can’t stop won’t stop. 

Under the cut is the opening scene, to give you a feel (not my first attempt at writing in this style, but the first in a LONG while.) I will post link to AO3 when I begin publishing. PLEASE let me know if you are looking forward to it, as it will greatly motivate me!

1885. TK is son of Owen Strand, of Strand Intercontinental Railroad Company. They have traveled to the southern US to cut deals with landowners there to build a lucrative rail line through central Texas. TK is 26, and his father thinks he’s getting rather old to be unmarried. He has warned TK that if he does not find a husband by the end of the year, he will arrange a marriage, as Owen cannot by law bequeath his fortune upon his death unless his son is married. TK is not...vibing with having to hurry his decision to wed. Truly at his heart, he is a romantic and wishes to marry for love. It’s just that love has been hard to come by with the flighty boys of his set back home in New York. He’s not holding out hope for any prospects in whatever back country they’re traveling to either.

“Ms. Mercer’s proposal looks promising,” Owen says, mostly to himself but loud enough to include TK in the conversation, should he wish to participate. “And Mr. and Mr. Felton-Lowman have quite a sprawl, though it does look to contain more elevation than I was hoping. I thought all of Texas was supposed to be flat?” Owen muses as he tosses the papers back onto his makeshift desk.

TK is only half listening, choosing instead to stare morosely out the window at the passing countryside of the American South, eyes at intervals tracking livestock in the fields and lingering drips from this morning’s light storm rolling down the glass window of the lavish Pullman they’ve commandeered as their vessel for this journey. His father, bless his soul, had tried to get TK to care more about the business as of late, and truth be told, TK was very interested in the workings of his father’s company and he did take great pride in being able to inherit it someday and make his father proud. It was just that recently, he’d had his heart thoroughly crushed by an absolute rake of a man and he’d rather wallow in self pity than think about geological surveys and boundaries for livestock movements.

TK heard his father sigh, a sure sign that a lecture was coming soon. TK took a breath and held it.

“I wish you’d forget about that awful boy, Tyler. You wouldn’t have wanted a life with him anyway. His family was barely polite at best, and scandalous at their worst. Honestly, you got out on the good side of things.” TK wanted to say that he didn’t care about things like status and scandal, he cared about love and commitment.

Turns out all Alexander had been able to commit to was his harem of stable boys and footmen that TK had known nothing about until it was too late.

TK blew out his breath. He knew his father meant well. Owen Strand was not overbearing as some other fathers were, especially with an only child upon whom everything rested. He wished his son to be happy and settled, is all. TK knew this, and still he couldn’t help his sullen reply.

“Yes, father, I shall just forget. Forget every sweet nothing and every second and third dance. Forget every promise and every earnest declaration. Forget that it was all a lie. Yes, my mind shall be rid of Alexander’s presence by sundown. Then we shall celebrate. How simple.” He knew he was being unreasonable, but he wanted to be angry for a while. He’d only found Alexander with Mrs. Howell’s second footman three days earlier. It still stung.

As the train rattled on, closer to a place that TK was of a mind to understand was so far from proper civilization as to be considered exotic, he felt his father’s disappointment cling to him. That hurt worse than what he’d seen Alexander and the footman doing--which was something for which he was sure a name had not been invented yet.

“I’m sorry, father. It’s just that you’ve set this deadline for me with no explanation as to why, and I don’t want to let you down but I’m afraid I’ll never find the right man for me. I had thought it would be Mr. Thompson, but I was mistaken. Sorely mistaken.”

At this, TK looked up to catch his father’s soft look of commiseration. “I know you’re feeling overwhelmed, but you are getting on in age. Most boys are married off by three and twenty, and you’ve gone nearly four years past that. I’m not going to be around forever, you know. You need to secure a match that makes you happy, but you’ll need to do it sooner rather than later.”

“Why, father? Why must I rush such a momentous decision? You are in perfect health! I have another five or ten at least!” At this, he caught a very minute shift in his father’s countenance, something like pain, but it was gone in an instant. His father was the most stoic man TK had ever had occasion to meet; if he was in pain at all, no one would ever know. It must have been a trick of the flickering pre-dusk light coming through the windows of the train car. Owen took on a playful tone.

“Five or ten? What respectable young lad would want to marry a man of thirty-five? You’d practically be spinster by then,” he joked fondly.

“You’re a good deal past thirty-five and I’ve still seen twenty year old Miss Brinkman making eyes at you across the dancefloor of an evening. If I’ve inherited your genes I’ve nothing to fear,” TK shot back with a barely there smirk.

“Thank heaven for us all, but you’ve got your mother’s beauty. I couldn’t have asked for better,” Owen said quietly. TK’s mother had been gone these past ten years. A bout with pneumonia that the doctors could not cure had taken her from them. “But you do have my charm, I’ll allow you that. You should put it to use down south. Perhaps a cattle baron might catch your eye?”

“Oh by God, no. I couldn’t imagine whiling away my days on a smelly farm trying to read reports by moonlight and taking my sullen and fatigued husband to bed only for him to fall asleep minutes after his head hits the pillow. No romance in hard labor, that’s for sure.” TK shuddered a bit to think of life on an actual farm, constantly smelling of hay and manure like some streetsweeper back in Manhattan.

“I do believe successful cattle barons can afford more than a few tawdry tallows, Tyler,” Owen quipped with a smirk before turning his attention back to the maps and surveys scattered in front of him. The conversation that, just moments ago, had been fraught with uncertainty and earnestness seemed to flutter into the wind. TK and his father were like that most times: they’d lay things out on the table between them, and if it clearly couldn’t be resolved in a single good-natured quarrel, they both gave themselves time to regroup to resume the discussion at a later date.

For this particular subject, TK was coming to think of that ‘later date’ as a cuff slowly tightening around his wrist, the chain binding him to his destiny getting shorter and shorter.

He looked down at his hands, privileged hands that hadn’t had to do much manual labor in his life, save for the few times his father took him to the yards to show him how things were run. Owen, on the other hand, was an entirely self-made man, who saved and invested his earnings working for Vanderbilt and made enough to purchase his first railcar at just twenty. He contracted it with the Erie and charged passengers thirty-five cents for passage between New York and Boston. From there it only grew, to what was now a very respectable business, looking to lay lines of their own. Perhaps not the largest--that was still Vanderbilt’s claim--but certainly a player on the board.

And it would all be TK’s if he could just hurry up and fall in love already.

[melanoradrood]

EPISODE 6 : Thunderclap

While on their honeymoon, Hermione discovers just how uninformed she is about marital life… and Draco’s finances.

Chapter 30 : Veritas

Draco tried to not worry as he watched Hermione eat. She had been distant the past two days, saying she felt unwell. At first, he had assumed that it was her cycle, as that did come every month, and they had been married some weeks, but he had spied her changing in the morning, and there was no blood, so he had to guess otherwise.

Perhaps she was actually ill, sick with some illness that would take her from him. He checked her every morning and every night for a fever, but no, there was nothing. She simply said she felt tired each day, unwell, not herself, and apologized. She went to bed early, and she woke up late.

He was worried for his wife. Worried for himself.

But, what could he do? Surely, whatever illness she had would pass with time.

Still, it was exhausting, to look at her each day and not touch her when he felt so strong, so excited. All of his problems were suddenly becoming solved. While he hated that he was using the money from the Duke of Norfolk, Hermione would understand, if he told her. She would have to understand - no, his wife was a practical woman. She would understand that, for the good of the village, the money had to be spent.

And besides, if her father was alive, she would have had a dowry, and she would have had access to Black family wealth.

And what was more, the money in the Malfoy vaults which had been his mother's dowry - he deserved that as well. This was simply... Regulus Black had no need for such funds. The money would be put to good use. It would save Draco, save him from his father.

READ IT ALL ON AO3 READ IT ALL ON WATTPAD

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

The Captain’s Heiress by Amy Jarecki

The MacGalloways #3

 Marriages of convenience and not always convenient…especially when you are in love with another man. Doing one’s duty is not always easy but it is sometimes necessary…right? Will Isabella and Gibb find a way to be together and if so, how will it all come about?

 What I liked: * Isabella Harcourt: daughter, scholar, puzzle solver, educated, spinster, “sold” by her father in an arranged marriage to an older American sight unseen

* Gibb MacGalloway: captain of his own ship, ex-British Navy, brother of a duke, one of eight siblings, a bit of a rake, good and fair leader, enjoys puzzles

* Duncan: the cabin boy on the ship, orphan, taken under the wing of Gibb and the crew

* Mirabelle Hume: Isabella’s lady’s maid and companion, dedicated, stalwart, supportive and has a bit of a romance of her own

* The meet-cute in the orchard with archery

* The time on the ship that allowed time to get to know one another to two couples on the ship

* That the man Isabella was betrothed to was a good man

* The ancient puzzle portion of the story and how it was solved

* The sailors on the ship

* The way the story eventually worked out in the end

* Thinking that perhaps Phillip will be up next in the series and wondering how that will work out.

 What I didn’t like:

* Knowing that women of that era were considered commodities and “sold” to the highest bidder

* Having to wait for the next book in the series

 Did I enjoy this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Definitely

 Thank you to NetGalley, Oliver Heber, and the author for the ARC ��� This is my honest review.

 4-5 Stars

     BLURB

 Captain Gibb MacGalloway might adore women, but he does not allow them aboard his ship… Females are too distracting for his crew—and too distracting for him, truth be told. But when his brother, the Duke of Dunscaby, asks him to provide safe passage to Miss Isabella Harcourt, the daughter of an old family friend, Gibb has no choice but to bend his rules. However, it is not until the lass comes aboard that he realizes Miss Harcourt is the lovely wallflower he’d tricked into giving him a wee kiss only the day before. Isabella Harcourt expected to spend her days as a spinster… Until her father announces he has arranged her marriage to an American silver miner who is over twice her age. She might be disappointed at the news, but she accepts her fate and boards the ship, her life in tatters. Worse, things grow even more daunting when she meets the blue-eyed stare of the man who’d imparted her first kiss only one day prior—a very passionate, bone-melting kiss. Now they must make a voyage across the Atlantic, pretending there had never been an attraction between them, pretending they’d never met. After all, she is promised to another, and he is married to the sea. By the time the ship arrives in Savannah, will this star-crossed pair be able to say their goodbyes?