The Smile of the Stranger

The first book in the breathtaking Paget Family Saga, a Gothic regency romance from the legendary Joan Aiken. Perfect for fans of Netflix's Bridgerton and Julia Quinn. When danger forces expatriate English gentlewoman Juliana Paget to flee her home in Italy, she embarks on a journey full of thrilling adventure. Nothing could have prepared her for outwitting a French mob, crossing the Channel in a hot air balloon, or fending off the advances of the fascinating Count Welcker. Arriving in London just in time for her very first Season, Juliana is going to find all her ideals challenged – and the truth of her heart finally revealed . . . Full of romance and adventure, The Smile of the Stranger is the first book in The Paget Family Saga. Continue the series with The Weeping Ash. 'Joan Aiken's invention seemed inexhaustible, her high spirits a blessing, her sheer storytelling zest a phenomenon. She was a literary treasure, and her books will continue to delight for many years to come' – Philip Pullman, author of His Dark Materials