Description

Once Dishonored

In the year 1816, the bustling streets of London are alive with the whispers of high society, yet for Lucas Mandeville, Lord Foxton, the grand ballroom feels more like a gilded cage than a place of celebration. A seasoned officer of the Royal Navy, Lucas has faced the fury of the ocean and the brutality of war, only to find himself shackled by the weight of his past. The memories of his imprisonment haunt him, and as he navigates the sea of elegantly dressed guests, he longs for the thrill of battle over the stifling formality of the evening. The tension in the air is palpable, and he knows that it is only a matter of time before someone confronts him about the events that transpired on the Continent, a shadow that looms over his reputation.

Just as the atmosphere thickens with anticipation, the entrance of Kyla Douglas sends a ripple of intrigue through the crowd. With her dark hair cascading like a waterfall and a defiant spirit that refuses to be subdued, she is a vision of scandal and resilience. A woman marked by disgrace, her presence in the ballroom is an audacious statement, and it draws Lucas’s attention like a moth to a flame. He approaches her, and in a moment of unexpected boldness, he invites her to dance, recognizing in her a kindred spirit who understands the burdens of societal judgment. Their connection is immediate, a spark igniting amid the swirling gossip and judgmental glances.

As the evening unfolds, Lucas finds himself drawn deeper into Kyla’s plight, offering his assistance in her quest to reclaim her tarnished reputation and reunite with her cherished son. Together, they delve into the murky depths of a conspiracy that has upended her life, facing danger at every turn. In their investigation, a profound love blossoms, one that promises to heal their wounds and forge a new path forward. Yet, as they navigate the treacherous waters of betrayal and deceit, they must confront the very real threat to their lives, all while holding onto the hope that their love can withstand the storm and lead them to a brighter future.

A kindred spirit, someone who, like him, seems to defy the constraints of their world. The music swells around them, a vibrant melody that seems to echo the tumult of their lives. As they take to the floor, the other guests fade into the background, their curious glances and hushed conversations becoming mere white noise.

Kyla’s laughter is a refreshing breeze in the stifling atmosphere of the ballroom, and Lucas finds himself captivated by her presence. She moves with a grace that belies the turmoil of her past, her every step a declaration of her independence. As they twirl and spin, he feels the weight of his burdens begin to lift, if only for a moment. In her eyes, he sees a reflection of his struggles—a shared understanding of the scars that life has etched upon their souls.

“Why do you dance when the world is so heavy?” she asks her voice a melodic whisper that cuts through the din of the ballroom. There is a challenge in her tone, a spark of defiance that ignites something deep within him.

“Because it is the only way to feel alive amidst the suffocation of expectation,” he replies, his heart racing as he meets her gaze. “And you? What brings you to this gilded cage?”

Kyla’s smile falters for just a moment, a flicker of vulnerability that she quickly masks with bravado. “I refuse to be a prisoner of my past, Lord Foxton. I will not let society dictate my worth or my choices. I am here to reclaim my narrative, to dance in defiance of those who would see me silenced.”

Her words resonate with Lucas, echoing the very sentiments that have haunted him since his return from the war. He has fought against the tides of fate, yet here he stands, shackled by the expectations of his title and the whispers of scandal that follow him like a shadow. In Kyla, he sees a reflection of his desire for freedom, a yearning to break free from the chains of societal norms.

As the dance continues, the world around them fades further into obscurity. They share stories of their pasts, each revelation drawing them closer together. Lucas speaks of the battles he has fought, both on the high seas and within himself, while Kyla recounts the events that led to her fall from grace—a tale of love, betrayal, and the fierce determination to rise again.

Mary Jo Putney

Mary Jo Putney was born in 1946 amidst the tranquil scenery of Upstate New York, a region characterized by its lush landscapes and serene atmosphere. It was here, surrounded by the beauty of nature, that she cultivated an unquenchable love for reading—an enjoyable obsession with no known cure.

From a young age, she found solace and adventure within the pages of books, immersing herself in stories that sparked her imagination and fueled her desire to create. After completing her studies at Syracuse University, where she earned degrees in English Literature and Industrial Design, she embarked on a journey that would take her through various design positions in California and England.

Each experience enriched her understanding of creativity and storytelling, but it was in Baltimore, Maryland, that she ultimately found her footing. In this vibrant city, she established her home, allowing her creative talents to thrive in an environment that inspired her to explore the depths of her imagination.

The aspiration to become a novelist lingered in her thoughts like a distant dream, yet it never felt like a realistic goal until a seemingly mundane event changed everything: she purchased a computer for other purposes. This ordinary acquisition turned out to be a catalyst for her writing journey, leading to a revelation that would alter the course of her life. The computer, with its endless possibilities, proved to be an excellent writing tool, igniting a spark of creativity within her.

With a mix of excitement and innocence, she plunged into her first manuscript, embracing the idea that sometimes those who leap in without hesitation can discover unexpected success. It was a bold move, one that required courage and determination, but she was ready to embrace the challenge and see where her newfound passion would take her.

Fortunately, her first novel resonated with readers and sold quickly, marking a significant turning point that positively changed her life. This initial success was not just a stroke of luck; it was the culmination of years of dreaming, writing, and honing her craft. The recognition she received from her debut novel led her to make a pivotal decision: she left her freelance graphic design career behind to fully embrace the world of writing.

Since 1987, Putney has penned an impressive twenty-nine books, each rich in psychological depth and exploring intricate themes such as addiction, mortality, and domestic conflict. Her works delve into the complexities of human relationships and the struggles individuals face, resonating with readers on a profound level. Over the years, her novels have appeared on numerous bestseller lists, including the esteemed New York Times and Publishers Weekly.