From bluestockings to scandalous heiresses, these strong-willed, unconventional historical romance heroines don't let anything stand in their way when it comes to love and happily ever after. Featuring seven novellas and novels from award-winning and bestselling authors. The Pursuit of Pleasure by Elizabeth Essex Independent, politically-minded heiress Elizabeth Paxton has never wanted to marry, but longs for the freedom afforded to widows. The last thing she wants is dangerously attractive Captain Jameson Marlowe as a husband. The Thief Steals Her Earl by Christina McKnight The Earl of Cartwright is determined to find out who stole from his family. When he finds out the thief is the woman he's fallen in love with, he must choose between duty and love. Secrets in Scarlet by Erica Monroe When a bluestocking with a scandalous past meets an idealistic sergeant, sparks fly as they work to solve a murder...but her secrets may lead to their undoing. Sleeping Beau by Lila DiPasqua Inspired by the tale of Sleeping Beauty—a scorching hot historical romance novella from the Fiery Tales series. One sleeping rake, one scorching kiss, one night of unforgettable passion... The Art of Seduction by Eileen Richards A spinster finds freedom as a theatre set painter until a chance meeting with the marquis who broke her heart has her questioning what she wants for her future. The Madam's Highlander by Madeline Martin What's the madam of a successful bawdy house in Edinburgh to do when she finds one of the English supported Black Watch soldiers needing to desert his post? She helps him, of course - but there's a high price to pay. Reckless Wager by Christy Carlyle Victorian propriety and passions collide when a beautiful widow makes a wager with a wounded police detective bent on solving the Ripper mystery.