The Lavender Bride: A glamorous, gripping historical read from the author of The Hollywood Governess

Shortlisted for the RNA historical romance novel of the year award 2026.

An English rose with American dreams

Audrey Wade longs to escape her domineering father and the bleak streets of post-war Yorkshire. Hollywood glitters with glamour, freedom, and the promise of a life with her best friend Freddie. But when Freddie abandons her, Audrey is left to chase her dreams alone.

A Heartthrob with secrets

Rex Trent is more than Hollywood’s leading man. Charismatic and dangerously handsome, he’s adored by millions and watched by powerful enemies in a paranoid 1950s America. One wrong move could destroy him.

A romance born of ambition and betrayal

When Rex proposes, Audrey is swept into Hollywood’s glamour and high-stakes secrets. But she soon discovers Rex’s dark side and faces a choice: cling to a man who may never love her, or risk everything to forge her own path?

A gripping new historical novel from a wonderful new voice. Perfect for fans of Wendy Holden and Allison Pataki.

Praise for Alexandra Weston:

"Set in the glamorous world of 1930s Hollywood, Weston has written a stunning book that I devoured in two days, with a heroine I was rooting for all the way. Full of surprises, this book gets five shiny Oscar-winning stars from me" Bestselling author Jenni Keer

'A delightful and perfectly pitched story of the golden age of Hollywood and a young woman’s struggle to find her place in the world.' Bestselling author Lauren Westwood.

'I absolutely loved this book! The story catapulted me straight into gloomy post war Britain then onto glamorous Hollywood. I really felt for Audrey as she battled to follow her dreams at a time when women were expected to be demure and decorative. I was captivated by this gorgeous read from the very first page.' Bestselling author Victoria Springfield.

"I adored this beautiful story. A glorious, unforgettable read" Bestselling author Renita D'Silva'

"Jane Eyre meets Rebecca meets Swing Time! I absolutely loved this beautifully written tale of old Hollywood - and Yorkshire! Mysterious, evocative and so compelling, I read it in 24 hours” Bestselling author Jenni Fletcher

"Alexandra Weston’s characterisation and narrative voice are superb. Highly recommended." The Historical Novel Society

"I loved this book such a sweet and beautiful story! I thoroughly enjoyed reading it! Definitely 5 stars!" Reader Review

"One of the most charming books I've read in a long time" Reader Review

"Fabulous book!! It had some serious Evelyn Hugo vibes" Reader Review

"I can’t wait to read more from Alexandra Weston as this was fantastic" Reader Review