He could not forgive her deception. She could not resist the desire they shared. When a scandal forces them to marry, their passions lead to dangerous secrets.
American-born Alyssa and her twin brother arrive in England after the death of their father reveals their high-born heritage—he was the heir to an earldom. Now they have been placed in the guardianship of the handsome, jaded Duke of Deverell. Alyssa's brother, Nicholas, will be schooled in the strict manners of a future earl. Alyssa will be sent to a convent. Both are horrified at their prospects, so they switch identities. Nick heads for a life at sea. Alyssa, disguised as a boy, takes his place in Deverell's household.
The cynical but mesmerizing Deverell is a tough taskmaster; though his frail-looking ward is spirited and witty, quietly winning the duke's affection, Deverell insists on harsh standards that challenge Alyssa's determination to keep the ruse going. Her feelings for Deverell complicate the...