A Lady of Means

A Steamy Mean Girls Meets Persuasion Historical Romance (Roses and Rakes, Book 1)

One mean lady, her inner circle, a secret book, and an even more secret love affair worth risking it all.

Lady Moria Pembrooke had a plan to get over her tragic past:

1. Dress to kill at all times.

2. Amass a circle of well-connected friends.

3. Create a burn book full of leverage to use against anyone who would insist she's ruined.

4. Marry for a title that will make everyone bow down to her.

Lady Moria had accomplished the first three on her own...until a chance meeting with a captain with tattooed hands a gentle soul who sees past her facade to the jaded-but-lovable woman beneath. Except she's still her, her schemes are still her schemes, and he has a duty to uphold. Now he's back from active duty, and ready to do whatever it takes to win her for good this time before he has to ship out again.

Moria and Devyn's courtship is further complicated by her family ties, her burn book, and an enticing rival for her hand. Moria has limited time and infinite choices to make before her window for her redemption closes. Her choices could effect not only her future, but her younger sister's as well. Choices which are complicated further by the charming Duke of Andover who offers her security and amiable companionship. But for the kind of love that withstands time and distance and every flaw, Devyn and Moria find just what sacrifices they're willing to make

©2025 Carly Pugh Upton (P)2025 Carly Pugh Upton

This whole book was absolutely phenomenal!

I have caught myself listening to this book in the car and being late for work because it was too good to pause. I have done nothing but eat sleep and listen to this book all week. I was hooked from chapter one. It reminds me of so many things but also being a completely different than anything I’ve read. I can happily say I love this book and am dying for the second one.