Dismissed without references from her previous governess position, Abigail West applies to the newly titled Lord Steele for a post teaching his nephews. Her lack of references and the notoriety of her affair with the grown son of her previous assignment do not bode well for obtaining another job. Thankfully, Lord Steele heeds the advice of a friend and hires Abigail. She gives her days to her young charges, but at night, she leaves and prowls the London streets looking for her brother. He tried to exact justice for her, but money and privilege prevailed, leaving her brother on the run with a price on his head.

Viscount Jason Steele received his new title due to extraordinary service to the crown. Jason has worked hard to become a self-made man. He finds no satisfaction from becoming the most powerful barrister in England. Instead, he broods about the loss of his wife and his newly appointed guardianship over his nephews. Attempts on their lives have made it necessary for him to discover the culprit. Jason has compartmentalized his life -- spy, barrister, nobleman and, at night, a masked vigilante. He is well qualified to find the villain, but a crisis of identity lurks, as he cannot reconcile all parts.

As a heavily veiled widow, Abigail searches for her brother, until thieves set upon her. A masked vigilante comes to her aid. Since they are disguised and do not recognize one another, they act on the moment and enter into an illicit affair that could destroy them both.

Ms. Robins' tale lets readers feel the depth of betrayal and raw emotions of a heroine who refuses to succumb to her bleak circumstances. She matches Abigail with a strong, but grieving hero. Add two adorable little boys, who are in danger, to the mix and you have a lively read.