Alexander Randall knows that, as the sole remaining heir to the Earldom of Daventry, he must find a wife and produce a son. The ideal bride for a man of his position would be an obedient young girl of good birth. But all his thoughts are occupied by Julia Bancroft - the village midwife with a dark secret that pushes her into Randall's protection. In just one day, Julia was kidnapped by her first husband's henchmen, rescued, and finally received a proposal from a man she barely knows. Oddly enough, she wants to agree. An alliance with Alexander Randall could benefit both of them, but Julia doubts she will ever again trust both her heart and the burning desire that Rendall ignites in her. And yet, it may be that the “lost” lord will be able to show a woman like Julia what a true marriage can be...