Livia Lacey is an anomaly among the marriage-minded debutantes. She's older and has a strong sense of independence due to the influence of her father. Her aristocratic father's disdain for frivolity and his preference for the simple life as a scholarly vicar have left Livia with a practical nature. She resides in an inherited home from a distant relative and maintains proper social decorum with an occasional outburst of foolishness. After meeting a newly arrived Russian prince, Livia's reaction to him puzzles her. He's outrageous and funny -- and he fascinates her.

Prince Alex Prokov arrives in London with an agenda from the Russian Czar. He's to spy on the English and send progress reports to the Czar. Alex's cover is simple. He'll appear as an exiled Russian aristocratic with no interest in politics. To add to his layers of cover, Alex will take an English wife to make cultivating the English easier. In a private matter, Alex hopes to uncover information regarding his English mother, whom he never met. When he encounters Livia, Alex finds the perfect woman.

Livia bristles under Alex dictatorial manner, but she believes they can compromise. Alex falls in love with the spirited and challenging woman knowing she will never forgive him if she discovers his deceptions.

Ms. Feather writes strong heroines who tackle their problems regardless of the outcome and Livia is no exception. This story builds in tension and suspense as the half-truths and betrayals mount. Readers will be on the edge of their seat by the exciting climax.