Due to his father's untimely demise, Damon Cranston is thrust into the role of the Duke of Chellenham. His loathsome and debauched father was too busy indulging in his vices and left the dukedom in shambles. Damon turns to Althea Galway, co-owner of the Galway Investigative Agency, to assist in unraveling the tangled mess. Since meeting Althea months ago, he hasn't been able to get her out of his mind, for he is captivated by her intellect, compassion, and confidence. Althea Galway has never been impressed by money or title. Or by looks—although Damon, the devilishly handsome, golden-haired duke, caught her attention at first glance. Arrogant and egotistical, he is called Dorian Gray by society because of his reprobate reputation. But Althea senses deep loneliness, perhaps even inner scars, and is compelled to find the honorable man she believes is hidden behind the cool exterior. Damon and Althea are swept up into a maelstrom of revelations: a conspiracy involving the late duke and others from the privileged class. Add a personal crisis into the mix, and finding a way to a shared future together seems hopeless. But they cannot deny the scorching attraction between them. Finding a way to make it all work will be a challenge. But it is one the duke and the lady detective are determined to overcome.