With her family on the brink of bankruptcy, Alexandra Bolton concedes to her drunken father to welcome the courtship of a local squire. Alexandra resigns herself to sacrifice herself to a loveless marriage to an older man in order to provide for her younger sisters. At a ball, Alexandra catches sight of a gorgeous man who astounds her. She never before believed in love at first sight, but she tumbles head first in love with the Duke of Clarewood. It is a passionate love, not like her first love many years ago when Owen was her best friend and their feelings grew over time. Alexandra knows this could be the prince who saves her.

Stephen, the Duke of Clarewood, molded himself into the image of his late father. Stephen wanted approval from the stern man but never received it. Their relationship was complicated. Stephen was not the duke's biological child, but he accepted Stephen as his heir. Stephen accepts his role and performs his duties exceptionally well, except entering into marriage with a proper debutante. He postpones it until he can come to terms with finding an alliance that will enhance his properties. When he catches sight of a beautiful woman in an out of fashion gown, Stephen sees his next mistress.

It is obvious she desires Stephen, but Alexandra rejects his advances knowing he will never offer marriage. Stephen refuses to be denied and begins a ruthless pursuit that could destroy Alexandra.

Ms. Joyce shines in her latest de Warenne novel. She has a flair for delivering dramatic scenes and vivid characters that fully engage readers. The secondary characters and storylines add richness to this thoroughly enjoyable tale.