A mysterious courtesan, Ria, takes London by storm as she announces her hunt for a rich protector. In reality Ria is Victoria, the Countess of Baybary, who's searching for her missing friend, Cleo. Cleo embraced the courtesan world but disappeared soon after making her appearance in London. Victoria feels safe masquerading as a courtesan in London. Society knows little about Victoria. Three years ago, her husband married her then left her in the country after one passionate night. Justin, the Earl of Baybary, claimed their marriage was a business arrangement. He made it quite clear that it was an empty marriage. Victoria never saw him again and resigned herself to loneliness. She found purpose in managing the estate and her few friends. When Cleo went missing, Victoria swore she'd find her.

Returning from the Continent, Justin hears about the beautiful and seductive courtesan, Ria. When his friends introduce him, Justin finds himself looking into the eyes of his wife, Victoria, the innocent young woman he deserted after her father blackmailed him into marriage. Justin, a master manipulator, found himself outmaneuver. He could not punish the blackmailer, but he could deny his daughter the comforts of a real marriage. After a furious confrontation, Justin feels Victoria's explanation leaves too many unanswered questions. There must be another reason she's in London.

Challenged by Justin, Victoria acknowledges her true mission. They declare a truce and Justin offers to help if she will return to the country after they find Cleo. He does not trust her even as the passion flares between them at every encounter. Pride keeps the secrets and lies hidden between them until danger forces Justin to face the secrets or lose Victoria.

Ms. Petersen delivers a highly entertaining and passionate marriage-of-convenience story. She explores the characters deep-seated emotions as they struggle with the past and come to terms with their future. This story will give hours of pleasurable escape.