On a splendid August afternoon Susanna Osbourne is introduced to the most handsome man she has ever seen … and instantly feels the icy chill of recognition. Peter Edgeworth, Viscount Whitleaf, is utterly charming-and seemingly unaware that they have met before. With his knowing smile and seductive gaze, Peter acts the rake; but he stirs something in Susanna she has never felt before, a yearning that both frightens and dazzles her. Instantly she knows: this brash nobleman poses a threat to her heart … and to the secrets she guards so desperately.

From the moment they meet, Peter is drawn to Susanna’s independence, dazzled by her sharp wit-he simply must have her. But the more he pursues, the more Susanna withdraws … until a sensual game of thrust-and-parry culminates in a glorious afternoon of passion. Now more determined than ever to keep her by his side, Peter begins to suspect that a tragic history still haunts Susanna. And as he moves closer to the truth, Peter is certain of one thing: he will defy the mysteries of her past for a future with this exquisite creature-all Susanna must do is trust him with the most precious secret of all… .