They plan to marry, but her older brother objects. In no uncertain terms, he explains that Richard's father is probably her sire since their mother had an affair with the previous Earl. Stunned, Eleanor flees London, ending up in abject poverty in a small remote village. Not wanting to return home yet, Eleanor, claiming her name as Nell, accepts a job as governess to Juliana, the daughter of Viscount Dunevin, Gabriel MacFeagh. Gabriel does not believe one word his new employee has told him, but he desperately needs someone to care for his child, who has remained silently traumatized since her mother died.
Governesses come and go at a rapid pace because strange happenings occur on the Scottish isle.
As Nell reaches out to Juliana, she falls in love with her employer who reciprocates. Although seeing elements from a gothic tale blended into Regency may seem strange, the story line works because of the clever prime setting. Juliana and Londoners augment the plot by providing additional light on the relationship between the lead protagonists. Comments and suggestions welcome.