After experiencing betrayal and humiliation in her youth, Lady Elizabeth Rowe did not expect anything good from men. Those who strenuously courted the marquis's daughter and flatteringly admired the young beauty forgot about respect and politeness when they considered Elizabeth's reputation ruined. For ten years, the girl diligently hid her resentment and pain behind a mask of arrogance and pride, moved away from social life and devoted herself to helping the poor. But Elizabeth's energetic grandmother does not lose hope of finding her beloved granddaughter a suitable husband, brave enough to disregard the opinion of the world, and persistent enough to overcome the barriers that Elizabeth has erected around herself. Who better suited for this role than the brave sea wolf, the handsome Ross Trilawney, the newly created Viscount Stratton?