Chiara Madero, daughter of an Italian baron, is the epitome of beauty and fire, and when confronted, her lovely lips reveal a sharp tongue. But her enchanting facade hides a less-than-elegant truth: her family believes her true value lies in her ability to secure an advantageous match. And there is no better place to find a wealthy, titled husband than the London Marriage Mart.

Mr. Abraham Jamison is not a firstborn son and has procrastinated choosing an occupation. Nevertheless, his honest and forthright nature immediately captures Chiara's attention. He is unsuitable for a woman of her station in all ways, but she can't seem to resist seeking out his company. Abraham sees through her fiery personality and refuses to play her games, yet after waging a mutual battle of wits, an unexpected friendship forms between them—a rapport that soon blossoms into something more.

Abraham's wish is to become a man worthy of her. But when faced with her family's determination to manipulate circumstances to their advantage, he and Chiara must face their feelings and find the strength to defy an insurmountable obstacle: Chiara's mother.