The Paupers’ House Party by Sarah M. Eden

It’s a rare event that Edward Downy and his brother are invited to a house party by a member of the ton. But when they arrive, Edward quickly realizes this house party is different than any other. All invited guests are destitute members of Society barely hanging onto their homes and social standing. The hosts of the house party, the Warricks, make a stunning announcement—they intend to gift all their properties to one fortunate guest. As the guests race to impress the Warricks, Edward finds a fast friend in Agatha Holmwood, who shares his same aversion to the horrible expectations. But their growing fondness for each other only makes the game more painful.

Originally published in Timeless Romance “Summer House Party” anthology.