When she first encounters the forbidden and fascinating Lord Verne at the Hart Inn, Lady Cecily foolishly imagines her rank and her identity are enough to protect her. A series of misapprehensions ensure they are not, and soon her reputation hangs by a thread. Saved by a fake and temporary engagement, she finds herself increasingly reluctant to end it.
The tragedy of Verne’s past competes with spies, an unknown assassin, and hostile family to prevent Cecily finding the ultimate happiness of true love. But another night at the Hart Inn might just be the answer to her problems and Verne’s. Will they find their happily ever after with each other? Or will Verne's sinister past destroy everything?