The Painter’s Daughter

Sophia Dupont assists her father in his studio, keeping her own artwork out of sight. In private, she paints the picturesque north Devon Coast, popular with artists—including handsome Wesley Overtree, who seems more interested in her than the landscape.

Captain Stephen Overtree is accustomed to taking on his brother Wesley’s responsibilities. Near the end of his leave, he is sent to find his brother and bring him home. Upon reaching Devonshire, however, Stephen is stunned to learn Wesley has sailed for Italy and left his host’s daughter in serious trouble.

Stephen feels duty-bound to act, and strangely protective of the young lady, who seems somehow familiar. Wanting to make some recompense for his own past failings as well as his brother’s, Stephen proposes to Miss Dupont. He does not offer love, but marriage “in name only” to save her from scandal. If he dies in battle as he fears, she will at least be a respectable widow.

Desperate for a way to escape her predicament, Sophie finds herself torn between her first love and this brooding man she barely knows. Dare she wait for Wesley to return? Or should she elope with the captain and pray she doesn’t come to regret it?

For Reading Groups: Discussion Questions are included in the back of the book to facilitate book club conversations.

Reviews:

“Christy Award–winning Klassen (Lady Maybe, 2015) draws on Jane Austen’s impeccably crafted novels in her latest richly nuanced and superbly written inspirational Regency romance.”
—John Charles, Booklist, starred review of The Painter’s Daughter

“In this gorgeous story of love and redemption, Klassen (Lady Maybe) spins a tale of secrets and deception, coupled with unexpected plot twists and a swoon-worthy ending; giving readers more evidence as to why she’s a fan favorite. Readers of inspirational Regency romances will clamor for this title.”
—Library Journal starred review of The Painter’s Daughter