Brooke Hammond travels to New Orleans from England anticipating ownership of Moss Grove Plantation only to find she's co-owner with Travis Montgomery, an arrogant but seductively handsome man who succeeds in firing her blood. Until his death, Jackson Montgomery, Travis' father, provided a home for Brooke to help her escape the profession of a courtesan. His will stipulates that if Travis marries and produces an heir within a year, he will inherit full ownership of the plantation, while Brooke will be given funds to continue her life elsewhere.

Brooke and Travis find each other unbearable, even though they are physically attracted to each other. When they are found in a compromising situation, Travis declares that he and Brooke are to be married. On their honeymoon aboard a boat, Brooke and Travis realize they both have fire in their blood and have indeed fallen in love. However, Brooke is mysteriously pushed overboard and assumed dead.

Once Travis returns to the plantation, various attempts are made on his life. Unknown to anyone, Brooke has managed to survive and makes her surprise entrance at the plantation during a party. Brooke and Travis must sort through the confusion to determine who is behind all the attempts.

Treachery and the excitement of a duel give readers much to keep their interest going. How does Travis handle it when he learns Brooke was a courtesan? Will they discover who and why someone is trying to kill them? I enjoyed reading about their adventures and the different characters who mold their futures. I highly recommend this novel. Alexandria Scott is a very talented author.