Working as an invisible companion and chaperone to titled young ladies, Ellie Hill provides a meager allowance for her younger brother. When her brother needs funds fast to pay off the moneylenders, Ellie falls back on a persona she created for emergencies. "Aurora" is a seductive woman who's able to win at the gaming hells with rare losses. Her gamester uncle discovered Ellie's gift -- being able to memorize cards and put combinations together without a second thought. Ellie's luck runs out when she's accused of stealing a diamond necklace, and her alibi lands her in more trouble.

Jack Rigg, the Earl of Raleigh, cannot believe the arresting woman he shared a passionate kiss with is the dowdy little companion he saw at the ball. He's avoided the parson's trap against some determined matching-making mothers, but this little schemer has caught him. Reminded by a good friend, Jack remembers her vicar father and his association with him. Banished by his father for poor grades, Jack was sent for tutoring to the vicar, where he met Ellie. She was an intelligent, precocious girl who followed him around that summer and declared her undying love for him.

Drawn into a marriage neither wants, Jack and Ellie attempt to find a common ground besides the attraction they find for one another. When an unknown force with a hidden agenda attacks Ellie, they must unravel the intrigue and find answers before Ellie and her brother are destroyed.

THE MARRIAGE TRAP is historical romance at its best. Readers will laugh at Ellie's quick wit and at Jack, who tries hard not to fall in love. As always, Ms. Thornton delivers a classic tale when she uses humor and intrigue and captures the characters ability to adapt to life's roadblocks.