Minerva Chesterton, chatelaine to Wolverstone, waits for the arrival of the new duke with trepidation. She not only promised the old duke to see his son successfully installed and settled into his responsibilities, she must mask her longtime infatuation with him. If Dalziel learns of her interest, he will use it to his advantage. Minerva will not become his mistress. Even though her parents were minor aristocrats, Minerva believes her status as chatelaine and confidant to the older duke and duchess makes her an employee. Dalziel will not look in her direction for a bride.

Sixteen years ago, Dalziel's father banished him from his life. Against his father's wishes, Dalziel had accepted the role of Royal spymaster. Dalziel led the Bastion Club with unparallel success. His only failure was locating one of Napoleon's spies, who is concealed within the upper echelon of English society. Dalziel's return after his father's death leaves him emotionally at sea and unprepared to take over the running of the Wolverstone extensive holdings. Minerva is essential to his success and he tamps down his attraction to her.

Dalziel sees a spark of desire in Minerva's eyes and temptation overrides his reluctance to seduce her. He begins a seduction campaign, but becomes reluctant to make her his mistress. Dalziel contemplates the usual Wolverstone marriage of loveless convenience and rejects it. Minerva proves resistant to a marriage without love and a battle of wills ensues.

Finally to readers' delight, Ms. Laurens reveals the secret identity of the Bastion Club leader. In telling Dalziel's story, the author incorporates numerous Cynster family and Bastion members who participate in exposing the final traitor. However, this is not the last time readers will see Cynster and Bastion members. Ms. Laurens begins the Black Cobra Quartet where romance, adventure and mystery continue to please her readers.