The Smile of the Stranger

The Paget family’s adventures begin in this Gothic Regency period romance reissue from legendary author Joan Aiken

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.

What readers say:

“A Regency romp with Gothic overtones, and a lot of fun.”

“Full of thrills and chills.”

“Classic Aiken—abductions, mysterious strangers and terrible betrayals.”

“I stayed up late to find out what would happen next!.”