Lady Phaedra Northampton's retreat from London society ends when a Russian spy falls dead at her feet with a knife protruding from his back; the very Russian she sought while trying to locate a missing young woman from her village. Suddenly Phaedra comes to the attention of a womanizing wastrel who is also seeking information about the Russian. All of the pent-up emotions Phaedra has suppressed from her previous fall from grace flare into a raging bonfire when she and Tristan are together. Her efforts to deny the temptation fall flat.

Tristan Talbot, Viscount Avoncliffe, has been at odds with his father since he was small. Tristan, the result of an unwise and short marriage, is a constant reminder to his father of failure. Now Tristan's father, a brilliant man in the Foreign Intelligent Office, lies dying. For the first time, he begs Tristan to investigate a Russian spy's death and to complete the mission he can no longer accomplish. Tristan uses his reputation as an empty-headed rogue to interview Lady Phaedra. From her mannerisms and evasive answers, Tristan knows she's withholding information.

After each encounter, Tristan feels drawn to Phaedra. She simmers with repressed sensuality that draws him to her. A hunger lurks within each of them that threatens to overshadow their goals in solving the Russians spy's death. Tristan attempts to push the attraction aside because he cannot disappoint his father's last wish.

Ms. Carlyle's tale of a son trying to reconcile with his father and a lonely lady unable to change her past make an incredibly emotional and moving read. The dialogue flows superbly, and the rich and complex characters battle with their heart's desire until the end when they finally accept the joy they deserve.