A woman looking for a love match . . . A soldier home from the war . . . A passion which terrifies the both of them . . .

Captain Byron Balfour never expected to inherit the title Marquess of Bridgewater, let alone the weight of responsibility that comes with it. When his beloved brother dies in a phaeton race in Hyde Park, however, Byron sells his army commission and returns to England, ready to uphold the Balfour family legacy. As he navigates his newfound duties, he meets the enchanting Lady Mirella, a woman who captures his heart and fills him with hope for a future he never thought possible.

His brother had been betrothed, though, to their neighbor's daughter. Byron's father had always instilled in his sons the importance of fulfilling their obligations and had wanted to join the Balfour family with that of this neighbor, his closest friend. Byron finds himself torn between duty to his family and his desire for true love.

Lady Mirella Strong makes her come-out, becoming the darling of Polite Society. Her family is known for making love matches, and Mirella will settle for nothing less. She falls in love with Byron, but he informs her he cannot pursue her because he will soon announce his betrothal to another woman. Crushed, Mirella throws herself into the activities of the Season—but realizes the handsome marquess is the man who holds her heart.