While some material would become serviceable underclothes for a spinster aunt, some might be destined for the train of a duchess's gown, lovely enough to grace the Queen's Presentation Chamber. Bolts of fabric stacked neatly upon shelves lining one long wall created a colorful patchwork that never failed to tickle Anabelle's imagination. She wiped her sleeve across her damp brow and swept aside the muslin curtain that led to the workroom in the back of Mrs. Someone in their household had to be practical. He was Mama's only glimmer of hope-and he wasn't cheap. Mama would be appalled if she knew about the money-making scheme, but, truth be told, Anabelle would have extorted money from the Archbishop himself to pay for Dr. The primary location in which Anabelle harvested secrets was not a seedy alley or gaming hell, but a small reputable dress shop situated on Bond Street where she worked as a seamstress. Perhaps her actions met the crudest definition of the word, but she preferred 'accepting coin in exchange for the solemn promise to safeguard secrets.' Much less nefarious, and a girl had to sleep at night. What Miss Anabelle Honeycote did to support her family was most certainly not that. It put one in mind of a villain who fleeced the pockets and slandered the names of hapless victims. (2) A change in plans, often necessitated by misfortune, as when one is unexpectedly apprehended during the commission of a crime.Įxtortion' was an ugly word. Owen’s searing kisses carry the promise of passion, but how will he react when Anabelle’s most devastating secret is finally revealed? Read ExcerptĪlteration: (1) A change made to a garment in order to improve the fit or style. Now her rules could mean his family’s ruin. until a scandal from the past resurfaces.

With Owen Anabelle enjoys pleasures she never imagined. Not only does Owen nip Anabelle’s extortion plans in the bud, the devilishly handsome Duke soon has the sexy seamstress dreaming of more than silks and satins. Her list keeps her (somewhat) honest-until she encounters Owen Sherbourne, the Duke of Huntford. Never enter into any form of social interaction with a client. Never reveal the secrets of a paying client. Never request payment from someone who cannot afford it.

To make up for her misdeeds, Anabelle keeps to a firm set of rules:

It isn’t something she’s proud of, but the reluctant blackmailer needs the money to care for her gravely ill mother. A dressmaker in London’s busiest shop, Miss Anabelle Honeycote overhears the ton’s steamiest secrets-and (occasionally) uses them to her advantage.

When She Was Wicked by Anne Barton