In need of income for the struggling Sommers barony, Jeffrey Althorpe arranges for the publication of a book he's written–anonymously, of course. A dowry would be easier, but then he would have to find a willing wife.

While her brother is away on an expedition, Lady Evangeline is left behind to spend her days creating exquisite embroideries and reading books. She's about to buy The Story of a Baron when Lord Sommers suddenly appears, intent on buying the very same book—but there's only one copy.

Desperate to discover what his publisher might have done to his story—without letting on he's the author—Jeffrey suggests they read it together. Evangeline's sterling reputation could use a bit of scandal, so she agrees.

As the two read the book, Evangeline realizes some of the characters are a bit too familiar and the settings are a bit too close to home. Was she the inspiration for the baron's secret love, a bold, brash woman whose reputation is in tatters?

With her own reputation suddenly in question, Evangeline finds her life imitating art. How can the book have a happy ending when she wishes she'd never purchased "The Story of a Baron"?