When Grace Hawthorne's mother dies leaving her penniless, Lady Sutton asks Grace to become her companion. Grace receives security and friendship from the arrangement leaving her eternally indebted to Lady Sutton. Payment of the debt comes when Lady Sutton's grandson, missing in Africa for more than 20 years, unwillingly returns to England. Lady Sutton instructs Grace to civilize the wild savage. Through their interaction, the rough barbaric man taps unsuitable desires and reminds Grace that she's still very much alive.

When Anthony Maddox, the Earl of Sutton, was 11 years old, he was torn from a raft in a raging storm in the Congo where he was exploring with his father. Swept miles downriver, the scared and frighten boy learned to survive in the jungle with minimal help from the natives. For 20 years, Anthony believed his father had abandoned him and his resentment mounted. Then explorers found Anthony and brought him to England against his will. Anthony yearns to return to the peace and freedom of Africa. He has no use for the English, except maybe this one attractive but prickly woman.

Grace attempts to teach etiquette and protocol, while trying to ignore the sensations he causes in her. Anthony senses wildness in Grace and tries to unleash it. However, he makes no promises to her. Grace knows this man has the power to shatter her heart, but she cannot walk away from him.

Ms. Maguire tackles a battle of wills with sparks flying between these remarkable characters. She portrays Anthony with great insight as a man struggling with the dilemma of being caught between two worlds and trying to find his place. Add a touch of mystery and revenge and you have an engaging read.