Only cats have nine lives…

Leo Hunt has come to a crossroads in his life. A notable Corinthian, and a man who can never say no to a challenge, Leo has decided its time to grow up. His friends are all marrying and settling down, and his sister’s blissful if chaotic family life has given him the idea that he might like something of the sort himself. The woman who has inspired this volte-face is his sometime friend, sometime nemesis, Violetta Spencer. Leo has known Vi since they were children and has never been in her company for above five minutes without vexing her.

Until now…

Hartley De Beauvoir was born into poverty, enduring his first years in the workhouse, an experience which left indelible marks upon his character. Adopted by Minerva and Inigo De Beauvoir at the age of six, Hart knows he owes them everything. His entire focus revolves around the desire to be worthy of the name they gave him and become a success in his own right. Having already built an empire of his own with De Beauvoir Nurseries and Landscaping, his goal is to become one of the leading landscape designers in the country.

When the Duke of Beresford commissions him to redesign the gardens at Hardacre Hall, Hart knows it is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and he wants no disruptions in attaining his goal.

Out of the frying pan…

When Muir Anderson leaves London to escape the rumours surrounding his involvement in the death of Lord Richmond, he thinks the worst is over. Returning to Scotland to face his father, the Earl of Morven is not an enticing prospect, but there's no escape. Little does Muir know he's about to be plunged into an epic drama that will change his life forever.

Into the fire…

Lady Cordelia Steyning is in a bit of a pickle, and rather dismayed to discover being kidnapped is not at all the thrilling adventure it had appeared to be in the romantic novels she so adores. Though she had often daydreamed about daring adventures and being the heroine of her own story, the truth is she's just a little bit terrified. Still, she's not about to let a man she despises take control of her future. Desperate measures are called for.

The devil's own luck…

Hamilton Anderson is the luckiest fellow in Scotland, or so people say. Everything he touches turns to gold. Having been given the running of the herring boat business his father had begun decades before, Hamilton continues the earl's work with gusto, creating a shipping business that exports Scottish herring, whisky, and wool to a voracious market before trying his hand at running a distillery. There's no shortage of whisky in Wick, but Hamilton's is the finest, and much in demand. The only fly in his ointment is the Reverend Robert Halliday, who seems intent on spoiling Hamilton's fun.