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.