The Spinster (Prequel)

She carries the blame for a tragedy. He carries a heart that never let go. Once bold and carefree, Miss Johanna Grey watched her world crumble the night her dearest friend—and betrothed—fell from the tree outside her window. The grief was unbearable. The guilt, heavier still. For four long years, she retreated from life, certain she no longer deserved happiness.

But guilt can’t decide your future. Only courage can. Now back in London, Johanna faces pressure to marry and step into a life she’s not sure she wants. Kind-hearted Lord Kenwood offers steadiness and warmth, echoing memories of what she lost. Yet another name stirs in her heart: Colin Grenville. The boy who kissed her once beneath a summer sky. The man she hasn’t let herself think of in years.

He left to outrun his memories. But hers never left him. Colin never stopped loving Johanna—not even from across oceans. When word of her return reaches him in Venice, he knows: it’s time to come home. Time to try. Time to hope that she might forgive herself enough to let love in again.

She thinks her past defines her. He’s come to show her that it doesn’t.

🌸 If you’ve ever struggled to forgive yourself—and hoped that healing could still lead to love… this story is yours.