Raven's Shadow (Book 2, the Ravenstone Chronicles) by Louise Franklin

Author:Louise Franklin
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: regency england, female action hero, heroine in disguise, historical adventure romance, heroines on horseback
Publisher: Katharina Franck

7

The carriage drew up before a four-story stone Georgian house on Curzon Street in Mayfair. Georgiana leaned forward in her carriage seat, and glanced at the dwelling that, like its neighbors, stood facing the street. Less imposing than the Wyndham mansion and gardens, the home was still impressive.

Peter, dressed in the dark green Ravenstone livery, descended from his perch behind the carriage, opened the door and let down the steps for her. She stepped lightly down, trying not to smile as she passed him. He wore a white powered wig, as was customary for servants in the city. His face was carved of stone and she knew he was not happy, dressed in white stockings and shiny black shoes. She had not insisted he attend her on the trip to London, and had been surprised that morning to see him beside the coach, waiting for her in his new livery.

She followed him up the steps to the front door, and waited while he lifted the shiny brass knocker. She heard the sound echo within and approaching footsteps. She came forward as Peter stood to the side.

A butler opened the door, his face expressionless, barring her entrance.

“Is Sir Edward at home?” she asked.

“He is at present still in bed, madam,” the butler replied.

He held the door in such a way that she could not enter. She smiled, aware that her drab afternoon dress did not recommend her, and wished suddenly she had made more of an effort with her wardrobe that morning. Her Spencer coat was slightly frayed at the cuffs and the dark blue velvet was shiny with wear. Never having met the staff of Edward’s town house, she was at a disadvantage. There was nothing for it, she decided. She would have to force her way in. She took a quick step forward, surprising the butler, who backed up, leaving a small opening through which she slipped.

The foyer was grand with its marble staircase, and she removed her gloves as she briefly glanced at the portraits that, like Ravenstone, led up the stairs. She was only vaguely aware of the butler who followed behind her, protesting her intrusion.

“Where is the drawing room?” she asked, ignoring the servant’s deep scowl as he passed her, and tried to block her way.

“Madam, if you will leave your card, I will inform Sir Edward that you have called, but I insist you leave at once for he does not receive callers at this hour.”

“Does he not?” she said lightly. “I assure you Sir Edward will see me now were you but to give him my name.”

“I am quite certain he will not,” he said, his face tight and disapproving.

“But you have not yet learned my name,” she said, and deciding she had played with the poor man long enough said. “I am Lady Georgiana Fairchild, his wife.”

“But you could not be for she is—,” he stopped, suddenly unsure.

“Paralyzed?” she asked. “Yes, I was, but have been miraculously restored to my feet. I assure

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