Forced to marry a sadistic old man, Lady Lisetta believes her hopes of love are lost forever. Her husband, Lord Mortlock, needs an heir by any means—or man—necessary and he orders his manservant, Vane Sawford, to accomplish the deed. Lisetta is drawn to Sawford's savage strength, and his tender caresses at night suggest he's more than he seems. Vane Sawford hides a secret. Loyal to another, he has secured Mortlock's trust and a position in his household. But his plans are threatened by the arrival of Mortlock's young wife, and he is torn between duty to his overlord and desire for her. When Lord Mortlock is betrayed and her home destroyed, Lisetta must submit to Sawford in order to survive. But with Mortlock's allies at large she must sacrifice herself for the man she loves, knowing that in doing so, she risks losing that love forever.