Frannie Darling's life is a study in contrast. As a child, she and a group of boys were raised under the protection of kinsman Feagan. He taught them how to pick pockets until fate intervened and Frannie and her boys were plucked out of crime and poverty by the Earl of Claybourne. He educated and introduced them into society. Frannie had never been comfortable with the aristocracy, so when a friend opens a Gentlemen's Club., Frannie joins him and keeps the books. There she is able to pursue her dream of opening an orphanage for lost boys. Frannie's contentment and happiness comes to an abrupt end when she meets Sterling Mabry. He awakens feelings she thought she lost after a brutal rape.

Sterling Mabry, the eighth Duke of Greystone, has wandered the world seeking adventure and searching for an elusive completion to his life. When he returns to England for his sister's wedding, Sterling can't hide his cynicism. He will fulfill his duty and marry, and only then will he reveal the secret that burdens him. When Sterling encounters Frannie, her unusual spirit and beauty intrigues him. Here is a woman who puts others before herself. It is an anomaly that Sterling is not unfamiliar to him. He wants her and begins a seduction campaign only to fall under her spell.

Sterling believes no one can rise above their station, but he can't let go of Frannie. The chemistry between them cannot be denied. Many obstacles stand in their way and they must decide if they can overcome them or surrender to a life without love.

Ms. Heath continues her outstanding series and even introduces Charles Dickens into her tale. It is impossible not to respond the Frannie and Sterling's emotional journey that takes them from the shadows into the brilliant sunlight. This entire series is destined to be a classic.