When a lady's life has been based in lies, it is difficult to discern the truth... even through love.

Miss Penelope Watterson?a wallflower, not by choice?wants revenge on the man who destroyed her adoptive family. For years she has despised the Viscount of Maplecrest, who caused her family's distress. After fleeing London due to multiple family scandals, she has been stuck in the Derbyshire countryside, and she's had enough. It is past time to take back her life and her rightful place in the ton.

Adam Coventry, the new Viscount Maplecrest, has returned to London from a stint in America where he made a fortune importing French brandy through naval blockades and then later solidified that fortune by investing in agriculture. Once his father died, he was obliged to attend to his title, yet he wishes to reside in America permanently, for he wants space between him and the insanity of the Watterson family... even if he's still in love with Penny.

Plans go awry when they both attend a summer ball and emotions beset them. Despite being enemies, desire flares, and forced proximity only enhances those feelings. As long held secrets are revealed, perceptions change, but when the foundation of Penny's life begins to crumble and truths are revealed for each of them in a highly scandalous way, something must be done. If they can't leave hurt and pride in the past, they might forfeit a love they never knew they needed.