The Secret Dowry (Clayton House Chronicles #1)

Her dowry changed her prospects, but only heartbreak could teach her the difference between fortune hunters and true love.

After two failed Seasons, Charlotte Kendall is resigned to never marry.

But when her family insists she keep trying, she agrees—although with a dowry of only ￡1000, she has no illusions of attracting many suitors.

She is unaware, however, that her well-married sister, Dorothea, has secretly boosted Charlotte’s dowry sixfold. Word of such riches attract many gentlemen, including Mr.

Robert Morton, who is keeping a secret: the estate he has just inherited is desperately in debt. He sees salvation in Charlotte’s dowry and pays his addresses.

Soon, Charlotte is persuaded she is in love.

Then Robert abruptly elopes to Gretna Green with an heiress.

When Charlotte learns of the betrayal and the truth about her dowry, she decides she can no longer trust men—or her heart— even as another love patiently waits.