Cotillion

An Unconventional Proposal

Cotillion by Georgette Heyer is a sparkling and witty Regency romance that playfully turns tradition on its head. When the eccentric and wealthy Mr. Penicuik announces that his fortune will go to whichever of his great-nephews agrees to marry his ward, Kitty Charing, the stage is set for a delightfully complicated charade. Kitty, longing for both independence and genuine affection, finds herself unexpectedly teaming up with the charming but notoriously unambitious Freddy Standen. Together, they hatch a scheme: a faux engagement that will grant Kitty the freedom she craves—and Freddy an escape from unwanted obligations. Yet, as they navigate the labyrinthine rules of London society, their arrangement brings surprises neither of them had planned for.

Romance, Wit, and Regency Whimsy

Georgette Heyer’s narrative glitters with her signature humor and lively dialogue, breathing life into a cast of characters as eccentric as they are endearing. Against the backdrop of ballrooms, drawing rooms, and the bustling streets of early nineteenth-century London, Kitty and Freddy’s masquerade grows ever more complicated. As misunderstandings multiply and eligible bachelors come and go, Kitty must decide whether security or sincerity will guide her heart. Meanwhile, Freddy proves to be far more reliable—and perhaps far more lovable—than anyone, including himself, would have guessed. Through tangled courtships and comic mishaps, Heyer delivers a joyful exploration of friendship blossoming into true love.

Georgette Heyer: The Queen of Regency Romance

Cotillion stands as one of Georgette Heyer’s most beloved novels, renowned for its effervescent charm, clever plot, and keen social observation. Fans of Jane Austen and lovers of historical romance alike will revel in Heyer’s world of wit, manners, and irresistible romantic tension. With its masterful blend of humor, heart, and authentic period detail, Cotillion promises readers both laughter and longing in equal measure—a timeless dance of love and fortune.

About the Author: Georgette Heyer (1902–1974) was a British novelist celebrated for her vivid, meticulously researched tales of Regency England. Her novels remain a gold standard in romantic fiction, adored for their sparkling wit, memorable characters, and keen insight into human folly and affection.