Anne C. C. Toornvliet-Los Boeken

To Arabella Tallant, the eldest daughter of a penniless clergyman, an invitation to stay with her London godmother feels like a ticket to paradise, where she hopes to find a suitable husband. Armed with beauty, virtue, and a supportive godmother, Arabella embarks on her first London season, determined to fulfill her mother's wish of marrying a wealthy man. However, her journey takes an unexpected turn when her carriage breaks down outside the hunting lodge of the affluent Robert Beaumaris. After overhearing Beaumaris dismiss her as just another woman after his wealth, Arabella impulsively claims to be an heiress, a pretense that amuses the jaded Beau. In retaliation, he introduces her to high society, exposing her to various suitors and social mishaps. Suddenly, Arabella becomes the center of attention among London's elite, but her heart is captured by Beaumaris, the charming bachelor. Despite her better judgment, she finds herself drawn to him. Meanwhile, Beaumaris, a master at avoiding marriage, underestimates Arabella's determination. As she compassionately rescues a mistreated chimney sweep and a mixed-breed dog, she inadvertently draws Beaumaris into her world, where he discovers a newfound enjoyment in playing the role of rescuer, especially when it comes to her impulsive brother, Bertram.

Under Louis XV's reign, corruption thrives in France, and Lord Justin Alastair, the Duke of Avon, is infamous for his cold demeanor and debauched lifestyle. Known as 'Satanas,' he embraces society's disdain. In a dark Parisian alley, he encounters Leon, a ragged youth fleeing a brutal guardian. The Duke buys Leon, who is actually Leonie, the Comte de Saint Vire's legitimate daughter, wronged by her father's desire for a male heir. With deep devotion, she serves the Duke, who harbors plans for revenge against the Comte. As they navigate the opulence of Versailles and England's grand mansions, Justin intends to use Leonie to enact his revenge, showcasing her beauty to his enemy while helping her reclaim her birthright. However, he is unprepared for Leonie's stunning transformation and the unexpected emotions she stirs within him. While Leonie captivates Paris, her true origins remain a mystery, and the glittering social scene cannot quell her inner turmoil. The one man who holds the key to her past is the formidable Comte de Saint Vire, the Duke's nemesis. He demands a price for the truth, forcing Leonie to confront her feelings for the Duke and the possibility of betrayal. Can she face the reality of her origins and the love she harbors?

De vertellingen van duizend-en-een-nacht vinden hun oorsprong in drie culturen: Indisch, Perzisch en Arabisch en kregen hun huidige vorm tegen het einde van de 18e eeuw in Egypte. In de 536e tot 566e nacht wordt verteld van de avonturen van Sindbad de Zeeman. Het boek is verlucht met oude Franse gravures.