The Companion's Secret Paperback

November 1882
Nell’s new job sees her welcomed into a more prestigious social circle. But she comes to realise that not all friendships are what they seem…

Scarred by the events of her last voyage, Nell is ready for a change, and being offered a role as a lady’s companion is too good an opportunity to miss.

It should be no more than taking walks and afternoon tea, but Miss Ellis’s life isn’t her own.

Surrounded by people wanting to control her every move, she longs to make her own choices, but when an old adversary arrives on her doorstep, her dreams are shattered.

Not prepared to give up hope, Nell is determined to help, but when she gets more involved than she expects, the outcome has far-reaching consequences…

Liverpool, November 1882

Nell shuddered as the carriage turned off Windsor Street and drove between the rows of terraced houses towards home. Mr Marsh studied her as the rhythmic beat of the horses’ hooves slowed to a halt. 


“Don’t look so worried.”


“I don’t mean to, but…” She flinched as the door rattled and she swivelled to see the coachman ushering Maria to one side. “My sister. She’s always keen to see me…”


“You’re very fortunate.”


She grimaced. “It depends what mood she’s in.”


The coachman opened the door and extended a hand to Nell as she contended with the steps. Once her feet were on the ground, she smiled at Maria.


“I’m home.”


“So I see.” Maria stared at the carriage as Mr Marsh followed Nell onto the footpath and gave a bow. 


“Good morning, madam. Mr Marsh, pleased to meet you.” 


Maria hesitated. “G-good morning…”
Nell’s cheeks coloured as she indicated to Mr Marsh. “He offered to bring me home.”


“I’m afraid Mrs Riley had an accident.”


“An accident?” Maria’s eyes flicked over her. “Are you all right?”


Nell pulled open the front of her cloak to reveal her plastered arm. “I slipped on the deck and broke a bone in my wrist.”
“Oh my goodness. I told you not to go … it’s no place for a woman.”


“I’ll be fine once I’m in the house.” She turned to Mr Marsh. “Thank you for bringing me home, but will you excuse us?”


“Of course. Let me put your luggage inside first.” 


Nell hesitated by the door as Mr Marsh put the bag in the hallway. 


“Farewell, ladies. Until two o’clock tomorrow.”


“Tomorrow?” Maria looked between the two of them.
“I’ll explain once we’re inside.” Nell ushered Maria to the hall, but stopped beside Mr Marsh. “I hope you find somewhere suitable to stay.”


“I’m sure I will. There were plenty of boarding houses on the way here. Good day.” He raised his hat and climbed into the carriage as Maria closed the front door. 


“What was that all about?”
“Let me get in first … and not a word in front of the girls.”