The Disappointed Daughter

Cousins of Cavendish Square

by Rachel Knowles

A blackmail threat. A fake engagement. A runaway bride. Join the Cousins of Cavendish Square in three clean and sweet Regency romances.

*****
She has been disappointed in love. He won’t let her forget.

Lady Dorothea Fitzwater knows what it feels like to be in love—and how much it hurts when it ends. Branded a jilt after her brief engagement to Lord Treadway, Thea embraces the reputation society gives her, rejecting every gentleman who seeks her hand. She yearns to love again, but builds barricades around her heart, fearing more disappointment.

A younger son with no prospects, Montague Pope has carved himself a place in society, shocking the ton with his garish waistcoats, and entertaining them with his verse. Only one person inspires Monty to write poisonous poetry that makes his audience squirm—Lady Dorothea Fitzwater. The woman who broke his best friend’s heart.

Monty sees a second chance for Lord Treadway to find happiness with Thea, but fails to persuade his friend even to talk to her. Desperate for the couple to be reconciled before Thea’s father banishes her to the country, he is forced to take matters into his own hands.

What Monty doesn’t reckon on is the consequences of his actions, and when his feelings for Thea grow, he must decide just how much he is willing to sacrifice for his best friend’s happiness.

Set in London in 1814, this novella by the co-author of the popular Regency History blog is rich in historical detail and includes a glossary and historical notes.

Part of the Cousins of Cavendish Square series, which can be read in any order, The Disappointed Daughter is a clean and wholesome, faith-based, standalone Regency romance with its own happily ever after.

Other books in the series
The Discarded Companion by Rosanne E Lortz
The Disenchanted Heiress by Iris Lim

Genres: Regency, Historical Fiction, Historical Romance

262 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 23, 2025

About the author

Rachel writes faith-based Regency romance with rich historical detail.

Already addicted to happy endings, Rachel first read Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice at the age of thirteen and fell in love, not only with Mr Darcy, but with the entire Regency period.

Since 2011, she has been blogging about her research on the Regency History blog. She writes historical non-fiction based on this research.

Rachel lives in the beautiful Georgian seaside town of Weymouth, Dorset, on the south coast of England, with her husband, Andrew. They have four grown-up daughters and a growing number of grandchildren.

Reviews

[RD · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent and engaging story! The author does a fantastic job of slowly unfolding details to keep the story intriguing. I didn’t want to put the book down! Monty and Thea are delightful characters with vivid personalities. Their coming together in the beginning is so fun — a misunderstanding that turns into a fortunate opportunity. They have great chemistry and humor. There are layers to this story that add satisfying depth and complexity — things are not always as they seem. The resolution at the conclusion is wonderful and heartwarming. I enjoyed reading this story and recommend it to readers who like clean, historical romance.

I was given an early copy of this story. A positive review was not required. This is my opinion.

[Jill Pickham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Dorothea Fitzwater is determined not to suffer the fate of many women by being forced to marry her father’s choice. She seeks support but finds none. Monty Pope has a dislike of Thea as he believes that she jilted his best friend. He derides her at every opportunity using poetry as his tool. Thea approaches Monty to clear up the problem who in turn consults his friend. Neither gives him the answer he seeks so a radical plan is carried out. Monty kisses her to ensure a scandal but finds himself in a fake engagement. Thea’s unwanted suitor does not give up despite being warned off. As the “courtship” begins Monty’s sister Helena makes Thea aware of her feelings for Monty’s best friend Lord Treadway- Thea’s jilted suitor. A series of events are misconstrued by Helena and Monty leading to the eventual clarification of feelings between the couples. A two engagements follow but now Thea discovers her mother has returned to London after running off with another lord some time ago. Monty discovers all is not as it appears and determines that he must set things right. How this is achieved makes for a satisfying conclusion to the story. I highly recommend this book filled with a well written storyline and engaging characters.

[Cathy R Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A number of seasons after Thea's painful broken engagement, her father decides she must marry as soon as possible. But though she's earned a reputation for attracting men and refusing them, they've only ever cared about her money, and she's determined to find love. When Monty Pope, the man who seems to consider her his arch-enemy, gets wind of her predicament, he decides the way to help is to push her back together with the man she's reputed to have jilted. But there's more to the story than he knows, and his attempt may cost him dear... Is Thea doomed to face disappointment yet again?

A delightful addition to the series but also a great read by itself, there being relatively little mention of shared characters. I loved the way that we get to see both the 'public persona' and real life person of each of Thea and Monty, and watching them each start to see beyond the obvious to the real was great. They've spent so much time in society as enemies (based largely on a misconception) that each finds the change kind of shocking, which is fun. It also provides a good reminder that there's often more 'backstory' than we realise, and Monty's attacks of Thea were really wholly unjustified. Thankfully he changed as soon as he realised the truth! As for her ex-fiance, I'd have liked him to be willing to actually talk about things a bit more - it felt rather cowardly, though not as bad as her would-be husband... The result is a great mix of romance, banter, intrigue and character growth. Recommended.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

[Michele Chovanec · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an incredible story. Not even a story… More like a saga. Lady Dorothy Fitzwater was known as a jilt having broken off her engagement to fiancé, Arthur, years ago. Arthur’s best friend, Mr. Montague Pope, was a poet who for the past four years had been writing poetry designed to cast her in the worst possible light as an ice queen and a woman who would crush the heart of any man foolish enough to fall in love with her. He delighted and reading his poetry at every ball and gathering which they both attended. As much as Monty disliked Thea, he believed Arthur was still in love with her and was determined to give them an opportunity to get back together. Theas’ father, Lord Aldbury, was determined to see Thea married, having tired of her refusing every man who asked for her hand. He, therefore, determined that she would marry the Irishman, Lord Carrowbeg, a man for whom Thea felt no affection. Thea would do anything not to leave her beloved London and, finding that marriage to Lord Carrowbeg would mean living in Ireland, she absolutely had to find another suiter of whom her father would approve. This was such a delightful book with not just ONE HEA and so many twists and turns that I did not see coming. I enjoyed it so much that I actually read it twice. I know that anything written by Rachel Knowles will be terrific but this time she exceeded even my expectations! Now I am left to wait with bated breath for her next release.

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thea has been refusing suitors and her father gives her an ultimatum to accept her latest suitor or retire from London. In the midst of all this Monty attempts to help her reunite with her former betrothed. How he does this only leads to further complications and in addition to all this she has her own family issues begin to come into play. After all these situations get resolved they find their hea.

[Luci Jamison · Rating 5 out of 5]

clean romance

A great story with a Gothic style with twists and turns galore.
The hero is quite likable and is also unlikely in so many ways.
The heroine is labeled unfairly yet uses the moniker to her advantage.
The author does a magnificent job of weaving the plot around the characters with interesting details and surprises.
There is an unexpected element with a bit of mystery thrown into the whole as well.
The series was very good and each can be read as a standalone but I recommend each one to add extra depth to the “Cousins of CavendishSquare”.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Persistent Poet

This is a wonderful romance with more layers than I expected. So many misunderstandings! But dear Monty (my favorite character) has more talents at his disposal than his glib tongue and flashy wardrobe, and he manages to change MANY hard hearts on his way to his happily-ever-after. I admire the way this book weaves into the Cavendish Square series- each writer keeps her own voice, while staying true to the cousins’ theme. Delightful!

[MaryEllen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the story. There were quite a few surprising twists and turns. The characters were well done.
There was a bit of angst that a conversation could have cleaned up, but it was not dragged out, and it seems to fit the times.

My favorite line:
“Marry me because you love me. Because you desire to spend your life with me. Not because it’s convenient, but because it would be most inconvenient not to be married to the man who loves you to distraction.” . . . sigh . . .

[Cora Vee Caswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was hard to put down! So many unexpected twists and turns, misunderstandings, wrong assumptions, and some downright danger mix some likeable but clueless characters with a scoundrel and his henchmen. You will have to read it to find its very satisfactory ending!

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, the dedication at the front of this book alone is swoon worthy, I knew the book would be amazing. I so very much enjoyed this story. I felt swept away into Regency England. Thea is a wonderful heroine and Monty is the perfect complement. Everything about the story keeps you guessing about what might come next and the ending is so very satisfying.

[B.J. Sikes · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well researched sweet Regency romance. I liked the main characters although their path to love seemed short and easy. That didn't make it unpleasant to read, but it wasn't exciting. I didn't really care for the estranged parents subplot. The resolution seemed too convenient. Overall I liked the book.

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It was swoon worthy from beginning to end. There are the main characters as well as a lot of interesting secondary characters that add a type of roller coaster effect to the plot. This author never fails to grab my attention in her stories. They are always well crafted, both fun and dramatic, which is normal in life, and continue to have great endings. If you haven't experienced her writings this is the perfect way to start.

[Renee Ferritto · Rating 4 out of 5]

A grand story full of escapades, misunderstandings, kidnapping, and more. I recommend this story.

Lady Dorothea brokenhearted and never wants to marry. Men are just after a connection to the Earl or want her dowry. Lord Aldbury, her father, wants her married before she becomes a spinster. Marry or be banished to Scotland, which will she choose?

Monty Pope, a poet and younger son, writes scathing poetry about the lady. He holds a grievance since she broke the heart of his best friend. The lady is known for jilting all men. Later, he discovers what his believes is false.

I received a free copy of this book via Bookfunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Fiona · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful tale that I thoroughly enjoyed. And I loved Monty!

[Suze Prescot · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful

Dorothea, Thea, aka the Daring Lady D, is being pressured to marry, but she has little wish to do so. She finds an unlikely ally in Monty Pope the poet, and that is when things get out of hand.
My first Rachel Knowles book will not be the last. This story was wonderful. Romance, polite society, villains and heroes.
I loved it.

[Natasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful, faith-filled story of love and second chances set in Regency

Comfortable, engaging prose with British grammar makes it a delight to immerse into the Regency period. Dual POV gives a glimpse not only into the characters’ way of thinking but also shows how their faith is strengthened - and that’s something one comes to expect from her wonderful books.

This particular novel points towards forgiveness instead of bitterness, kindness instead of selfishness, joy instead of disappointment. As Thea and Monty put aside their differences and misconceptions and learn to trust God with their hopes , so does the reader. How does one rely on God and avoid putting trust in people because they sure to disappoint? And how can one discern truth from pretence?
And though the novel doesn’t boast dramatic endeavors or an emotional roller coaster - although be prepared for some action and quite a twist, or two, - it is the steady course of relationships growing from enemies to friends to two people in love that brings out a smile and helps the reader answer those questions.

The romance is sweet, kisses only but though not descriptive, they are passionate.
Extra “brownie point” for glossary and historical notes at the end, a true delight to a history/Regency period lover.

I had a privilege to read an advanced copy and absolutely loved it! All opinions expressed are my own.

[Kristi Hudecek-Ashwill · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was new and different for me and so refreshing. Monty is not in line to inherit anything, but his sharp wit and ability to create make him a crack poet. Unfortunately, his favorite target is Dorothea, who has refused to accept more than a few marriage proposals and even jilted best friend, Arthur Treadway.

Thea is determined to never marry—not without love. Her father gave her one last chance to marry or he was going to banish her to the country. He has the man picked out, the man is willing, but she still refuses. She went to one last ball before her banishment and is once again aggravated that Montague Pope (Monty) is reciting another of his illustrious poems where she is the villain.

But the unthinkable happens and a scandal is about to ensue. To say any more would certainly mean spoilers and I don’t want to ruin this for anybody else. It is a delightful story.

This is a clean enemies-to-lovers trope that also entails a fake betrothal. It’s got some adventure, great characters, and a tight plot. Ultimately, it’s a story about loyalty, forgiveness, and true love.

I adored the story, but there was just one thing missing that I have to have to make a strong connection with any character. I need character descriptions. I need to know what they look like. It was great to know that Monty had a deep voice and wore outlandish waistcoats, but I wanted to see him as a man; as if I had spotted him from across a room. I wanted the same with Thea. When Monty thought she was the most beautiful woman, I wanted to see her through his eyes. There were tiny snippets here and there, but I was hoping for more, thus earning four stars.

*I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily left a review.

[Desiree · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed myself while reading this. I appreciate and enjoy the author keeping with the historical time. There was a theme of forgiveness that was lightly woven in and handled nicely. There were a few twists in the story that kept the story interesting. I thought there was a good flow, dialogue and good characters. This sparked my interest into the rest of the series. I liked the flow if the story and liked the conclusion!
*light Christian element

[Rebekah Wanke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly romantic! I love that this story has people with conscience, the characters are wonderful.
I like the bit of mystery there and that it had lots of fun poetry. I didn’t want it to end!
I really appreciate the attention to accuracy and authenticity that Rachel Knowles brings to her writing. And she never disappoints when it comes to her lovely use of language! For instance, this line:
“For his friend’s sake, he had kissed her once. And for his friend’s sake, he would never kiss her again.” Does that whet your curiosity for the story? You won’t regret reading this book! I loved it.

[Sharon Whalley · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love a Jane Austin style romance with twists and turns and surprising outcomes you will love this book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book with its subtle reminders to pray about daily situations and to be open to give and receive forgiveness . There is a reminder to live in the present so you don’t miss out on Gods blessings for today, rather than always looking forward to a different set of circumstances.
The characters also remind us to find out the true facts not make assumptions on behalf of others. A reminder of the power of words.
This story despite it being set in the Regency period has so many relevant lessons for today.
I am privileged to have read this book before it has been published and all comments are my own.

[Fanosse23 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this sweet romance about love lost and found, and the courage to take a chance on love again. Lady Dorothea Fitzwater once harbored deep feelings for Lord Treadway, but her affections were not reciprocated. Labeled a jilt, she has since refused every marriage proposal, fearful of heartbreak.

Enter Montague Pope, a spirited poet with a flair for wearing outrageous waistcoats. Having penned unflattering verses about Dorothea for breaking his best friend's heart, Monty takes it upon himself to reunite Lord Treadway with Thea, though he lacks the full story of their past relationship. Meanwhile, Thea faces pressure from her father, who threatens to banish her to the countryside if she refuses the suitor he's chosen for her.

Monty's well-intentioned meddling leads to an unexpected consequence—he and Thea find themselves engaged in a fake courtship. This charade stirs emotions and desires Monty never anticipated. Now he must grapple with a dilemma: should he confess his growing feelings for Thea, risking his friendship and his best friend's happiness?

The story unfolds like a roller coaster ride, filled with unexpected twists, misunderstandings, secrets, and delightful characters—some clueless yet endearing. I appreciated how the author portrayed the genuine forgiveness between Lord Treadway and Thea, emphasizing heartfelt reconciliation. It was heartwarming to see the characters genuinely wishing happiness for their friends with the right partners

The journey from enemies to friends to lovers was both delightful and heartwarming, leaving me smiling, especially due to my fondness for Monty. I loved witnessing Thea and Monty engage in honest conversations, setting aside their differences and misconceptions. The spiritual elements woven into the story added an extra layer of depth, making it an even more enriching read.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Elizabeth S · Rating 3 out of 5]

Upper class problems in Regency London

Lady Dorothea Fitzwater's reputation as a jilt has lasted for four years in London society. Thea's father has reached his limit and ordered her to marry a fortune hunter she does not love. Montague Pope has ridiculed her with his poetry ever since her first fiasco. When he takes pity on her and interferes by trying to reunite her with his friend, Lord Treadway, his kindness is rewarded with chaos.

The aspiring cits are the most amusing. It's possible to spot them from a distance once you know what you're looking for.

With this comment uttered in Vauxhall Gardens, Thea disparaged the merchant class in London, those who had worked hard for their wealth, as opposed to the upper classes who had everything handed to them. She revealed her arrogance and condescension by using that derogatory term. From that point on, I lost any sympathy for her character. While sympathetic to the powerlessness of women in history, I didn't feel that Thea's past disappointments justified her snobbery.

The whole scene in Vauxhall, with Monty, Thea, Treadway, and Helena, was frustrating. A few sentences would have cleared up everything, but then you wouldn't have a plot. I dislike misunderstanding tropes, where simply speaking is all that's needed. From that point on, the author leaves all four characters with mistaken impressions that a simple conversation would have resolved.

A desire to divorce is part of the plot, but that would have been all but impossible in the Regency Era. It required the approval of the Church of England, as well as a Private Act of Parliament, a long and expensive process which would have created a massive scandal.

With revisions, this could be a cute story.

[Gabrielle East · Rating 4 out of 5]

There was so much to love and appreciate about this book. I have read a few of Rachel's books and love that they don't feel like a long winded read that you are just trudging through to get it finished.

I loved the characters, the honourable men and women involved, whether it is the 'jilted' fiancé, his best friend protecting his honour, though misguided. The beautiful heroine who has hidden pain but wears a smile, she doesn't lower her standards and is prepared to stand by her morals even if it means banishment. I do tend to get a little anxious with suspense via a villain as I know not how it will end, but thankfully, it was short-lived and easy to read to the good ending.

At first, I did think that the book had reached it's happy ending, but realised that I was only half way through. There were just a few things that I felt were rushed and without reading the other books in the series, the suddenness of husbands and engagements of the heroine's friends, seemed odd as they had left the story line for reasons not really known.... it was only these few things that left me feeling out of sorts, otherwise, another wonderful book by this author that I begged to be part of her ARC team. It's my second ARC reading of Rachel's all of her others, I had already read. This book was provided as part of the team, but I always give my own thoughts on the book.

[Glynis Halliday · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just loved Thea and Monty's story! Even as part of the Cousins of Cavendish Square series, it can be read as a standalone book. However, I'm very much looking forward to reading the other books in the series!

Thea is a strong minded young woman who doesn't want be pushed into marriage, which is what her father desires of her. But can she go against her father without ending up being exiled to the country, away from her cousins and London?

Monty is a bit of a poet and enjoys making people laugh, except for Thea, for whom he writes poetry which paints her as a heartbreaker. As he gets to know Thea, he finds out that he was mistaken in his judgement.

Once again, Rachel has written a beautiful and easy to read romance, filled with strong characters, a little bit of mystery and intrigue, unexpected twists, some laughter and some tears. The faith of the main characters is believable and honest and the book is refreshingly sweet and clean. Certainly not boring. The story is well researched historically for the Regency period that it's set in. All in all, it's a book that will keep you engaged until the very end.

I recommend it highly, along with all of Rachel's books. I hope you enjoy reading this book and others by the author, as much as I have.

I had the pleasure of receiving an Advanced Reader Copy.

[Patti Whitaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an amazing story! This is a book in the series the Cousins of Cavendish but it can definitely be read as a stand along. I was drawn in from the very first page - the story begins with Thea (Dorothea) in her Father’s study being given an ultimatum of either accepting the marriage proposal of her latest suitor or be banished to the country without much possibility of being able to return to London. Thea thought she had found love in her first season only to be heartbroken and fears giving her heart to someone else. It is believed by society that Thea is the one who broke of the engagement with her first love, Lord Treadway. Montague Pope is a second son and a poet who is also Treadway’s closet friend. He takes every opportunity to public shame Thea for what he feels she did to his friend. Knowles does an excellent job of slowly revealing that there are many layers to the courtship and break up of Thea and Treadway and that they both are ready to move on and find love - but not with each other - leading to many surprises for all those involved. I highly recommend this story and loved the Epilogue

[Southern Belle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story was filled with so much disappointment and sadness that could have been avoided if anyone bothered to communicate the truth. So many assumptions were made, which the ton was known for doing, but even the main characters were guilty of such. Even Monty added to Thea’s pain, but thankfully was so remorseful when he realized how wrong he was. It showed that open communication would help avoid misunderstandings that make life miserable, and that forgiveness would make the world a much better place if more would do so. Our hero and heroine had strong moral characters and were full of fun, witty banter, with plenty of sizzling chemistry, yet clean and sweet interactions. I was grateful in the end the main characters, and most of the secondary ones, overcame their natural tendencies to hide their true feelings and happiness was found. Historical fiction is my favorite genre and this author does it justice by doing her research and telling delightful stories. I also appreciated the glossary and historical notes at the end. Thanks to the author, I received a complimentary advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Dorothea Fitzwater was given an ultimatum—marry her father’s choice for her or be banished to Thorncombe Abbey. Thea had no intention of complying or of leaving London, but her usual sources of comfort and guidance could offer no solutions as they faced difficulties of their own. Surprisingly, her nemesis, Montague Pope, who wrote poetry disparaging her predilection for jilting men who courted her, rescues her from what appears to be her inevitable fate with a kiss in a crowded ballroom.
Based on sound Christian beliefs of God’s directing our paths, the novel, set in Regency England, takes Thea and Monty from enemies to loving couple as the two overcome preconceived notions about the other.
Both Monty and Thea are well-drawn. I like Thea’s independence and compassion. Monty makes me smile—and wish I knew him in the flesh.
The author has included a glossary and historical notes at the end of the book as well as

I received an advance reader’s copy of the book from the author This is my honest opinion.

[L. Lamplighter · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Disappointed Daughter was a total delight. Once again, Rachel Knowles has performed her magic, delivering a delightful Regency romance and a solid historical novel at the same time. This particular book reminded me very much of some of my favorite Heyer novels.

Our heroine suffered heartbreak—both over a failed engagement and over family troubles. While she longs for love, she has all but given up. When her father gives her a choice, marry an unpleasant fellow or leave London for the country, Dorathea is desperate for a third option.

It doesn’t help that popular poet, Monty Pope, writes poetry mocking and belittling her. But when Pope, of all men, offers her a temporary way out, Thea jumps on it! Only as time goes on, Thea’s not so sure she would not rather his temporary means were not so temporary.

I also enjoyed seeing some of the Merrys and Anthony Warren, favorite characters from other Knowles books.

[Susan Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Regency romance story of misdirected and unexpected love, mistakes and second chances. When Monty discovers he has unfairly maligned Thea for jilting his best friend, he goes overboard to rectify his wrongdoing - and finds himself falling in love with her. But returning to the past throws up both redemption and danger. Rachel Knowle's meticulous research (she runs a Regency history blog with her husband) immerses you in the era, and I think it's this expertise that enables her to create heroes and heroines that are not Regency romance cut outs (or dare I say, silhouettes?): here, the hero is a poet and the heroine a woman prepared to choose spinsterhood over a loveless match. I devoured the book in a few sittings and look forward to more from Ms Knowles.

[Regency_Fan_ Michelle RegencyFanMichelleAndMore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romance and Intrigue

I absolutely adore the captivating tension between Monty and Thea! Their animosity runs deep—he's bitter about her having jilted his best friend, while she can't stand his disdainful attitude. It's the perfect enemies-to-lovers scenario, and I can't get enough of it! Thea dreams of marrying for love, but her father's ambitions threaten to derail those hopes. Just when it seems like their lives are set on a predictable path, a scandalous public kiss turns everything upside down. There's even a thrilling twist with intrigue and a kidnapping!

This author, one of my all-time favorites, masterfully brings the Regency era to life, weaving in warmth and historical authenticity that make every page a delight to read.