The greater the love, the more devastating the sense of betrayal.

Miss Penelope Snowley has been leading a double life.

Armed with beauty and ambition, the daughter of the Baron of Bienholr is determined to rise to the demands of her choices. When an unexpected meeting with a mysterious gentleman shakes her world, she unwittingly puts her reputation at risk.

With progressive views that set him apart from his peers, Andrew Wilson, the Marquess of Romwich strives to lead his family to prosperity. His courtly way of life is suddenly upended by a ravishing stranger he meets at a bookstore.

But Penelope has committed a scandalous crime…

Like a thorn in their flesh, her secret identity stands between them, and Andrew is her only hope for redemption. But first, he must make a choice: forgive her or chase her away from his life forever.