A reclusive scholar. A charming lady. An undeniable love. Oliver, Viscount Frost, must end his reclusive ways to uncover the mysteries of an ancient text used by a ringleader of professional thieves. He emerges from his books only to find Lady Julia Hopwood blocking his path.Julia's friendly nature and charming smile hide her desperate efforts to keep her father from succumbing to melancholy and illness. The purchase of an old book for his collection is her latest attempt to brighten his spirits. When the gruff viscount demands she hand it over, she refuses, even when it plunges her into a shadowy side of London she barely knew existed.The lovely lady is a beam of light in Oliver's dark world, but he needs the book. Passions rise as the pair cross paths, each hiding secrets even as they share stolen kisses. Julia is drawn to the solemn scholar, wanting to ease the unhappiness she senses deep inside him. Can Oliver release his demons to help Julia or will their secrets keep them apart?