Does love truly conquer all? Or is sadness inescapable? Is it worth the effort required to be free of its dark downward pull? The Victorian Age has been kind indeed to Gardiner-Bingley Enterprises, third largest company in Great Britain. Gardiner's Emporium warehouses in London and Scarborough, and most recently expanded to include Bristol and New York City, are well supplied by the partnership with Bingley Shipping and Bingley Woolen Mills now headed by patriarch Charles Bingley. His second son, Thomas, is blessed with everything the mortal heart can most desire-good looks, splendid property, noble kindred-and his own ship. He enjoys his well-ordered life until the day he looks into the eyes of his heart's partner and recognizes her for who she is. But mystery surrounds her. Why is a gentlewoman, a peeress, booked aboard a freight steamer enroute to America-without a maid or companion? Why does she deflect all questions about herself or her future plans? Like his father before him, Thomas quickly comprehends that he has found his 'angel'. But will she fly away before he can convince her to stay? Although there is no explicit content in this story, it does deal with the sensitive topic of successfully recovering from sexual, physical, and emotional violence to find that life can still include 'jewels on the water'. This is a clean read appropriate for readers 17 and older. Novella of 32,500 words Total of 43,450 words including excerpts from 3 other stories Rachel's writing releases a fragrance of love that woos one in with a gentle caress across the soul. I cannot wait to read more of her writing. She is a very gifted story teller. Sharon, personal coach from Kirkland While reading Jewels on the Water, I was transported to another time and place - the true test of a good read. Heidi, Pride and Prejudice addict Loved getting sucked into the book! Creative and beautifully written, love getting lost in the characters yet being able to imagine myself and my experiences woven throughout the pages. Julie, pastor's wife I loved your first story very much. I loved your take on a well told tale. Anita, nurse from St. Louis