Thomas Hyde, Viscount Varcourt, is suspected of killing his brother to attain the title. With his brother's death, his family has disintegrated. His father has become distant, his mother melancholy and he doesn't feel comfortable anywhere. He is worried when his mother seeks the help of the latest charlatan to offer her skills to society.

Esmeralda is a woman of mystery. She keeps her face hidden by a dark veil. She claims to communicate with the dead. Her claims and the mystery surrounding her have brought her to the forefront of society.

When the Viscount tries to stop her from fleecing his mother, she worries that her plans will never come to fruition. She must do whatever it takes to deflect his interest in her so she promises to investigate his brother's death. Her vows to take down the man who ruined her life and her promise to Thomas will place her in a difficult position.

Thomas becomes obsessed with learning more about Esmeralda at the same time he becomes obsessed with her. As the season progresses, Thomas and Esmeralda will have to face some difficult times. The decisions they make may well affect the rest of their lives.

Ms. Joyce writes a story of obsession which explores the darkest of emotions; grief, hate, revenge and love. This story didn't work for me on a couple of levels. The relationship between the hero and heroine always appeared to be more about obsession than love.

My interest in a book is always driven by the characters and their relationship. Thomas appears to be an arrogant man who is willing to blast through any obstacle to achieve his aims. Esmeralda is an unhappy woman whose only desire seems to be to bring down the man who ruined her life. While I had some sympathy for both of them, it didn't make it any easier to like either of them.