An independent and resilient woman who has overcome a difficult childhood and is dedicated to helping other foster children.

The story begins in Narragansett, Rhode Island, where Felicity is spending her summer before law school. She accidentally spies on her new neighbor, Leo, through binoculars while he is in an outdoor shower. They soon meet and form an instant, deep connection despite their vastly different backgrounds—Leo is a wealthy British lord with heavy family obligations, while Felicity grew up in the foster care system.

Leo’s cousin and housemate during the summer; he provides humor and has his own emotional backstory, which is further explored in the interconnected standalone, The Surrogate . Themes and Tropes The Aristocrat - Penelope Ward