As Jacobites conspire against the English throne, a desperate woman contends with a mysterious suitor in this historical romance of love, war, and deception.
 
Proud and penniless, the raven-haired Sophia knows only two things about the wildly dashing and mysterious Philip Rich: that he’s the poor and disgraced relative of the Earl of Rame; and that he awakens in her a craving that her betrothed, Sir John Bladen, can never satisfy. Unfortunately for Sophia, pledging herself to the wealthy Sir John is the only way to save her beloved Tarrant Hall.
 
When Sophia makes the crushing choice to scorn Philip in favor of her future, she realizes just how much of a mystery Philip has been. He is, in fact, the famous Earl himself. Whatever the reasons for the Royal Pretender’s ruse, Sophia fears his next move: avenging his honor with a stunning reprisal.
 
The Earl’s vow to humble the woman he loved will draw them both into the treacherous plots and intrigue at the luxurious court of George II. While danger lies ahead for Philip and Sophia, so does a resilient desire that could prove to be as passionate as it is dangerous.