Millicent Wentworth is burdened by the sins of her deceased husband and determined to undo the wrongs he inflicted upon the innocent souls he ensnared in his web of deceit. Her only recourse lies in a union of necessity-with none other than the enigmatic widower, Lyon Pennington, Earl of Aytoun. Lyon Pennington, scarred by tragedy and haunted by accusations, seeks solace in a marriage of convenience orchestrated by his mother. As he grapples with his own demons, he finds unexpected healing in the presence of Millicent, a beacon of light in his darkness. In the tender embrace of Millicent, Lyon discovers a path to redemption, his heart slowly thawing beneath her gentle touch. And as their bond deepens, Millicent realizes that beyond Lyon's gruff exterior lies a man of unparalleled kindness and passion-a man she yearns for with every beat of her heart. In each other's arms, they find not only solace but the promise of a love that defies all odds, igniting a desire that burns brighter than any flame. HOLT MEDALLION WINNER FOR BEST HISTORICAL ROMANCE ROMANTIC TIMES AWARD WINNER FOR BEST BRITISH-SET HISTORICAL ROMANCE