Anne's Adversity — Jennifer Joy

A sweet romance inspired by Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice. Though part of a series, this is a stand alone novel. When Anne de Bourgh discovers a letter which reveals a family secret long hidden, she refuses to marry Fitzwilliam Darcy. This act of boldness infuriates her mother, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, and soon Anne finds herself without a home. Forced out of everything she has ever known, will Anne have the courage to seek the truth from the letter? Will her health allow it? Most of all, can she avoid scandal if her family's secret is known? Luc Mauvier has led a life of freedom and success as a small theater owner in town. His tragic past has taught him to enjoy life and its pleasures to the fullest. When he meets Anne de Bourgh, she is opposite to everything he has ever known and he is soon reminded of how a gentleman should behave with a real lady. Can a tradesman win the heart of a lady? Even more important: Can he win Lady Catherine's approval? What Anne reveals about her past gives her courage, but will it be enough?