Classic & Aristocratic Sounding:
* Montgomery: Evokes a sense of history and old money.
* Ashworth: Sounds refined and slightly mysterious.
* Fitzwilliam: Clearly aristocratic and distinguished.
* St. Clair: Elegant and geographically suggestive (Scotland).
* Blackwood: Darkly romantic and sophisticated.
* Wentworth: Classic and strong.
* Cavendish: Historically linked to nobility.
* Langdon: Refined and somewhat mysterious.
Slightly Less Formal, But Still Upscale:
* Hawthorne: Suggests nature and a slightly rustic elegance.
* Fairchild: Pleasant and subtly sophisticated.
* Redwood: Evokes images of grand estates.
* Kingsley: Simple yet regal-sounding.
Names Suggesting Wealth or Status (More Subtle):
* Sterling: Directly associated with high value.
* Gold: Obvious wealth connotation.
* Diamond: Similar to Gold, but with a sharper edge. (Use cautiously, might be too on-the-nose)
Tips for Choosing:
* Consider the genre: A posh last name might not suit a gritty crime novel, but it could work perfectly for a historical romance or a sophisticated thriller.
* Say it aloud: Does it roll off the tongue easily? A name that is hard to pronounce can detract from the overall impression.
* Check for existing characters: Make sure the name isn't already heavily used in popular culture.
Remember that the overall effect of the last name will depend on the first name and the context within the book itself. Experiment with different combinations to find the perfect fit for your protagonist.