Jocelyn is the second bride to have been offered to Connor MacLerie, the "wife-killing beast." And, since he's about to become an earl, all he wants is a son to succeed him. Their first night together was miserable, which was quite fitting considering their marriage was nothing more than a transaction. And Jocelyn fears she might be killed if she fails to deliver a son. Her straightforward personality helps her get along with the castle residents, though, and one day she discovers a subtle, hidden kindness in the heart of the beast. She also learns that he refuses to kiss her. The sorrow Jocelyn feels leaves her perplexed; has she fallen in love with her husband despite herself?