Old Toronto Historical Romance

M W Gilford Dry Goods Co. Series

Vetiver Letters - Book One

Old Toronto Historical Romance Series

In 1897 Toronto, a young woman's ambition collides with unexpected romance and long-buried secrets.

Marni Gilford embarks on a long journey from Winnipeg by train and steamship, returning to Toronto with one goal: to present her mechanical patent designs at the Toronto Industrial Fair. Armed with her apprenticeship under M. de la Croix and a determination to succeed in a man's world, she's unprepared for the journey of the heart that awaits her upon arrival.

As Marni reconnects with her estranged father and grows closer to Edward Milner, a distinguished lawyer twenty years her senior with whom she has been corresponding, she uncovers a web of secrets tying Edward to her late mother. With suspicions mounting and her carefully laid plans unraveling, Marni must confront the past while also facing deepening feelings for Edward.

Discover the first book in the Old Toronto series, where historical landmarks and tender connections intertwine in a story that will warm your heart and keep you guessing until the final chapters.

Set against the backdrop of late 19th-century Toronto, Vetiver Letters weaves a tale of ambition, love, and secrets of the past. Will Marni choose her career aspirations or risk opening her heart to unexpected love? What could Edward be hiding and why does it appear her father is also concealing the truth?

The New York Tour - Book Two

Old Toronto Historical Romance Series

In Book Two of the Old Toronto series, The New York Tour, Marni returns to Winnipeg with a singular goal: to resign from her position of employment and reclaim her life in Toronto. However, upon her arrival, she discovers that saying goodbye to Antoine de la Croix—her employer, trusted friend, and mentor—is more challenging than she anticipated.

As Marni navigates life-changing decisions, her loving correspondence with Edward deepens, strengthening their bond as they plan their future together. Enter Mr. Jarvis St. Clair, a confident and charming gentleman from New York. Twenty years Edward's junior and just a year younger than Marni, Mr. St. Clair's presence creates an unexpected stir. His connection to Mr. Pennington, the man behind Marni's binding contract, further complicates matters.

By spring 1898, Marni embarks on an exciting trip to New York, reuniting with her beloved cousin, Elise Sutherland, after nine long years. As Marni grows more confident and embraces her newfound personal freedom, she begins to shed societal inhibitions.

Who is this alluring Mr. St. Clair, and why does he seem so familiar with Marni? How will his bold presence affect Edward's sense of security in their relationship?

Join Marni on her journey of love and self-discovery as she navigates the complexities of relationships and embraces her own desires, challenging the internalized constraints on women's intimate exploration in late 19th-century society.

Fair Opposition - Book Three

Old Toronto Historical Romance Series

After the devastating betrayal by her unfaithful fiancé, Elise Sutherland flees New York, seeking refuge with her extended family in Toronto. At her cousin Marni’s invitation, Elise hopes to find solace in the company of her cousin and her favorite uncle. She yearns for a fresh start, but her retreat takes an unexpected turn when Marni introduces her to the enigmatic Mr. Jarvis St. Clair—a dashing and sharp-witted New Yorker who seems to bring out the worst in Elise, just as she does in him.

Their conflicted dynamic might have been short-lived, but fate has other plans. When Marni unexpectedly asks Elise to step in at Toronto’s Industrial Fair, Elise must work side by side with the man she has come to loathe. Forced proximity fans the flames of their conflict, but it also stirs emotions neither of them anticipated.

Amid the challenges of her new role, Elise encounters the spirited and unconventional Miss Felicity Gervais. With Felicity’s guidance, Elise embarks on a profound journey of self-discovery, learning to trust her intuition and uncover the deepest desires of her heart. As she begins to embrace her true self, Elise’s world opens to new possibilities — including two intriguing suitors.

Elise’s resilience is tested and she must ask herself: can she overcome the wounds of the past and find the courage to pursue love again? And what role will the changeable and distant Mr. Jarvis St. Clair play in her unfolding story?

This captivating story, Fair Opposition is the first in a three-part arc within a six-book series, each delving into interconnected journeys of love and awakening. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Victorian-era Toronto, this Old Toronto series blends romance, spiritual exploration, and self-discovery. Perfect for readers seeking heartfelt, nondenominational tales of love, wisdom, and personal growth, this novel invites you on a journey of synchronicity and awakening.

Becoming Miss Sutherland - Book Four

Old Toronto Historical Romance Series

Leaving Toronto behind, Elise returns to New York to confront the complex dynamics of family relationships. Facing long-buried challenges with her mother and father, Elise surprises even herself as she finds her voice, unearthing family truths and reshaping old patterns.

Yet, despite her personal growth, Elise’s heart remains unsettled. Thoughts of Mr. Jarvis St. Clair linger—a man as unpredictable as he is captivating. Though his temperament runs hot and cold, he has undeniably stirred a yearning for love within her. When a milestone celebration for her beloved uncle draws Elise back to Toronto, she finds herself unexpectedly reunited with Mr. St. Clair. But he is not the only gentleman capturing her interest. A new and worthy contender emerges: the charming and refined Mr. Hearst. With his eloquence and impeccable manners, he seems to embody everything Elise has ever dreamed of in a gentleman.

As her emotions pull her in conflicting directions, Elise finds herself back at Toronto’s Industrial Fair, working once again alongside Jarvis St. Clair. However, a formidable new challenge awaits her: Mrs. Priscilla Birchmount, a powerful socialite with an agenda of her own. Elise is quickly thrown off balance, for if anyone could get under her skin faster, it would be the calculating and manipulative Mrs. Birchmount.

Navigating the challenges of society and the unresolved connections to men from her past and present, Elise must decide where her heart truly lies. Through the sage guidance of her dear friend Miss Felicity Gervais, Elise learns that the greatest love story begins within. But will she choose the safe path with Mr. Hearst or dare to trust her growing feelings for the changeable yet charming Mr. St. Clair?

Becoming Miss Sutherland continues the tale begun in Fair Opposition, the first part of this three-book arc within the six-part Old Toronto series. Full of passion, intrigue, and heartfelt self-discovery, this second installment invites readers to explore the transformative power of love and the courage to follow one’s heart.

Breaking Mr. St. Clair - Book Five

Old Toronto Historical Romance Series

In Breaking Mr. St. Clair, the final chapter of Elise Sutherland’s journey unfolds with intensity, heartache, and transformation. Set against the vibrant backdrop of 1899 Toronto—a bustling city that still holds Elise's heart—we follow alongside as former beliefs fight against her true longing. Though determined to succeed in her endeavors, it seems Elise's biggest challenges are yet to come.

Orchestrated by the cunning and malevolent Mrs. Priscilla Birchmount, these trials push Elise to confront damage that only she can mend. As the socialite’s schemes wreak havoc on Elise’s life, she must summon every ounce of strength to confront the damage and reclaim control. Will Elise finally overcome Mrs. Birchmount and her relentless manipulations, beating her at her own game?

Amid the escalating tension, Elise finds herself at a crossroads, torn between two men who hold her heart. One has offered his love freely, while the other remains guarded, leaving her to wonder if her feelings for him will ever be fully returned.

Just as clarity seems within reach, Elise is compelled to look deeper, uncovering the reasons behind the trials that continually test her. Guided by the wisdom of her friend Felicity, she begins to see the truth: the challenges she faces are reflections of her inner world. The love she seeks must first be cultivated within herself.

Through the art of letting go, Elise embarks on a path of self-acceptance, learning to give herself the love and fulfillment she seeks without. Yet, her heart still longs for a partner to share her life. Will embracing her true self lead her to the soul connection with another, or will she find peace in simply being whole and content within herself? Will Elise make manifest her dreams of true love and partnership?

Breaking Mr. St. Clair concludes the emotional, transformative journey begun in Fair Opposition and Becoming Miss Sutherland. This is a story of resilience, self-discovery, and the powerful interplay between love for oneself and love for another.

Christmas at Gilford's - Book Six

Old Toronto Historical Romance Series

Founded in 1866, the M. W. Gilford Dry Goods Co. has stood as a beacon of refinement and resilience in the heart of bustling Victorian Toronto. Nestled along King Street West, within the vibrant district of Old Toronto, the expansive dry goods emporium is much more than a store—it is a testament to Morris Gilford’s unwavering vision and a sanctuary for his daughter Marni. Together, they carry the tender memories of their late wife and mother, Marianne, whose spirit lingers in the cherished spaces they once shared.

In Christmas at Gilford’s, the final chapter of the Old Toronto series, we step into the gilded doors of Gilford’s during Christmastime in 1899, where the charm of the era meets the warmth of tradition. This is a story of family, love, and the bittersweet ache of memories that linger.

As Morris Gilford begins to open his heart to Mrs. Elizabeth St. Clair—a graceful and tender-hearted widow from New York—he is faced with life-altering decisions that ripple through his family and his store. His growing affection for Elizabeth challenges him to balance the demands of modernizing his beloved shop with the pull of a new romance, much to the dismay of Marni and his spirited niece, Elise.

A delicate tension unfolds as Morris wrestles with his ambitions, his memories, and his hopes for the future. Marni, ever wise and steadfast, attempts to guide her father toward a resolution that honors both his past and his dreams. Yet, it is only through a series of poignant moments, masterfully orchestrated by life itself, that Morris begins to understand the art of loving fully while releasing what no longer serves him.

Step into the elegant interior of the M. W. Gilford Dry Goods Co. and experience the enchantment of Christmas in Victorian Toronto. Amid the gentle hum of electric lights and the bustle of patrons seeking holiday treasures, discover how one man, one store, and the enduring ties of family can weave a little magic into the lives of all who enter its doors.