The Art of Deception
or Pride and Extreme Prejudice
Welcome to Weekend Writing Warriors. This week I introduce another book, that will eventually come out via booktrope (hope springs eternal.) It’s a spy story set in late Georgian England, the year before Trafalgar. Alice’s somewhat shady Uncle Grey has come to make her an offer she can’t refuse. Last week he entertained Alice and her mother with a recollection from his wartime experiences in the wilds of South Carolina. This snippet is after Lord Grey inquires about Alice’s hopes on the marriage mart. He’s making the offer they can’t refuse.
However, you’re right, Alice needs to see more of society;” He smiled at his niece, “Even if she returns here to marry her mill-owner.”
Alice grimaced back at her uncle and then said, “Speaking of dancing and manners, how do you know that mine are suitable? I would be willing to bet a reasonable sum that I’m too rustic to grace London society.”
“I’m glad you state a ‘reasonable sum’ niece; your father would have bet everything on it; I think, my dear sister that it would be best were I to take Alice with me to London when I return there in a few days. Give her the opportunity to acquire some ‘town polish.’ Dancing lessons, and new dresses, that sort of thing.”
Alice jumped at the chance and beamed, “Would you?”
“Of course; indeed, I should think you would find it immensely enjoyable, and I’m sure June would enjoy re-establishing her friendship with you. Unless, Lady Mary, you have any objections?”
“There being no alternative,” she said, “I can have none.”
My book “The Curious Profession of Dr. Craven” is a decent read.
I’ve also released a sweet regency romance, Miss DeVere
Get Free Stuff and try out my landing page. There are three free complete short stories (including an ARC for Frankenkitty) available after you’ve gone through the hoops.
R. Harrison, Creative Enterprises 
“There being no alternative,” she said, “I can have none.”
Nice way to summarise that whole era, Rob!
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Your writing is always so smooth and I enjoy the turns of phrase! I have a feeling there’s more to this generous offer than meets the eye, or than Alice can imagine as yet. Intriguing! Great snippet.
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Alice doesn’t know what she’s in for. I’m not sure I wasn’t channeling Lewis Carroll when I picked her name. Thank you.
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Why do I suspect there’s more to this offer than meets the eye? Beware of White Rabbits, Alice. One pill make you larger, one pill makes you small, and the ones your mother gives you don’t do anything at all!
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