Isabella's Rake

A young woman defies the strictures of Regency society to claim her voice as an artist—and discovers that rebellion can be its own kind of love story.

A rebellious artist. A forbidden romance. A society that demands conformity. In Regency London, Isabella Eardley must choose between her passion for painting and the expectations of her noble family.

In 1800s London, Isabella Eardley dreams of becoming England's first great female landscape artist. When she meets the charming painter Harrison Curzon, she sees a chance to pursue her artistic ambitions. But as the granddaughter of a duchess, Isabella faces mounting pressure to marry the Duke of Winkham and fulfill her family's expectations.

June Calvin weaves a captivating tale of romance and rebellion in this Regency-era story. Through secret art lessons, daring escapes, and passionate encounters, Isabella challenges the rigid constraints placed on women of her time. With her loyal friend Virginia by her side, she navigates the treacherous waters of London society while fighting for her right to create art.

Will Isabella choose the safe path of a prestigious marriage, or risk everything for love and artistic freedom? As her father's threats grow more menacing and her feelings for Harrison deepen, Isabella must find the courage to defy convention and forge her own destiny. Her choice will either shatter her dreams or lead to a life she never dared imagine.

June Calvin lives in Oklahoma with her husband of 62 years, near her son, daughter-in-love, and young grandson. She has been a teacher, secretary-bookkeeper, public relations person, museum educator, antique dealer, candle maker, and newspaper reporter. When she discovered the world of Regency romance, she finally realized what she wanted to be when she grew up. Her first published book, The Baron and the Bookseller, won the Romance Writers of America’s Golden Heart award in 1993. In total, she has written twelve Regency romances.