She is desperate for a fairy godmother. Fate gives her a wicked duke.

Simon, the Duke of Bellingham, dreads his sister's house party, especially as her matchmaking hat is firmly in place. Attempting to atone for a misspent youth, Simon has become a sober, respected member of Parliament—and a hunted bachelor. His plan to avoid the minefield of ambitious mamas and daughters is cast aside when he happens across a lady whose beauty is enhanced by her warmth and teasing tongue.

Miss Jessica Tremaine never forgot the kindness the duke displayed during a dark day when she was a young girl. Unexpectedly crossing paths once again, he assumes she is a lady's maid and not a well-born lady from a troubled family. It's clear he doesn't remember her, and for a time, she allows herself to dream of a future away from her despicable stepfather.

When Simon learns of her deception, he retreats to London to nurse what he suspects is a broken heart. Yet, when Jessica finds herself in danger, she turns to the one man she trusts—even if he doesn't trust her.

Warning: Contains a lady in need of a knight-errant, a duke in need of a lady, and a deception that ignites a passion for the ages.