Evelyn Wheaton watches the world through thick spectacles knowing the attention she receives is due to her wealth. She hides behind prim and proper behavior. Rejected by her late father for being unattractive, she fled home hoping for happiness, but she found only more rejection from her husband. After her husband's premature demise, Evelyn seeks a new husband at Cowes, the seaside resort where the famous sailing races transpire. She wants a family and does not mind that her suitors desire her money and not her. Looking among the gentlemen sailors, Evelyn spies Lord Martin Langdon. As a young girl, Evelyn worshiped the young boy who became a scoundrel.

Lord Martin Langdon leads a superficial life racing fast yachts and having meaningless affairs. He returns to Cowes intending to take the championship a third time. Martin recognizes Evelyn as the young girl from his wild Eton days. She ignored him then and it seems she wishes to ignore him again. Loving a challenge, Martin causally flirts and needles her. For the first time in years, Martin finds himself laughing again, having forgotten Evelyn's wit and sharp tongue.

A genuine friendship emerges and Evelyn decides to have an adventure before she marries. Martin declares he will not marry and will only offer her a brief fling. Evelyn must decide if she's willing to take a chance and attempt to win Martin's heart.

Ms. MacLean breathes new life into the tale of a prim heroine who meets the charming scoundrel by incorporating their participation in the historical and famous America's Cup Yacht race. The writing is crisp and Evelyn and Martin's romance is tender and touching. Ms. MacLean never fails to entertain readers with her delightful stories.