When Peter Davenport's eyes meet those of a beautiful young servant, his pulse quickens. There is something about the intriguing beauty that stirs his blood in a way that no woman ever has before, and he is driven to discover everything about her. Unfortunately he learns that Jemima is in trouble up to her beautiful ears! Despite his promise to protect her, Peter is stunned when Jemima abruptly disappears, and devotes his life to finding the woman who made him believe a marriage and children were possible.

Jemima knows she is taking a risk trusting this battle-hardened nobleman, and when a ghost from her past puts Peter's life in danger, Jemima knows she has made a huge mistake involving this battle-hardened nobleman. Ignoring her heart, she has no choice but to flee the one man who makes her feel safe and protected.

Although he does find her, he is horrified to learn that she is awaiting execution for a murder. Peter is a warrior who never backs down from a fight, but even he has to face the awful truth that even with his extensive wealth, and title, he cannot save her from the gallows. What he doesn't expect is the shocking turn of events that leaves everyone reeling, and facing an entirely different battle for future happiness.

Despite the passion that simmers between them, Jemima knows that until the past is laid to rest, she cannot have a future with Peter, no matter how wonderful it is to be in his arms again. Will this gallows bride, ever be able to find future happiness with the man she loves?

Desperate to keep her safe, Peter refuses stand back and allow her to leave him again, but is unable to persuade her to listen to reason and accept his hand in marriage. Determined not give her up without a fight, Peter has to follow his heart and, against his better judgement, agrees to escort her on a daring journey to Padstow, directly under the nose of the smuggler who wants her dead.

But are either of them prepared for the final confrontation with Scraggan, and the shocking truths that are revealed?

Follow Jemima and Peter as they struggle to find the truth within a complex web of lies and shocking revelations that will change both of their lives - and will ultimately send someone to the gallows.