Antiquities expert Evan Rhys might be a rogue, but he's as loyal as can be. When he fell in love with Lady Kate Whelan at first sight, he hid his heart—because Kate was his lifelong friend's new bride. And when a mysterious steeplechase accident in Ireland left Kate a widow, Evan fled to protect his late friend's secrets ... and tried to forget his unrequited love.

When Kate's mourning is complete, she is determined to live anew—starting by clearing the debt that endangers her young son's future. She seeks help at a race meet in Newmarket, where she is delighted to encounter her long-lost friend Evan. He agrees to accompany her back to Ireland, following a trail of false artifacts. Through travel adventures over land and sea—from stuck carriages to smutty antiquities—Kate's feelings deepen, and the friends become lovers.

But once within the bounds of the Whelan estate, old secrets and betrayals are ready to come to light. And the truth could endanger not only Kate and Evan's newfound love, but their lives ...