Is legendary beauty Lady Annabelle beyond redemption?
Rejected at every turn and growing older, Annabelle agrees to marry the man of her father's choosing, believing this will lead to a comfortable life free of complications.
Miles Croft, the new Viscount Pelham, seems perfect for the part, but instead of finding a comfortable complacency, Miles and Annabelle awaken in each other a greater knowledge of themselves, and discover their need to complete each other.
That unexpected awakening begins not in London, but at a secluded Devon lodge. Stricken by a violent fever on the threshold of their retreat, Annabelle finds her famous beauty stripped away, leaving her to endure weeks of quiet convalescence beside an attentive husband.
Unprepared for the quiet warmth of his family seat, Annabelle resolves to sponsor his sister in society, trusting that a fashionable return will finally silence London's gossip. Yet stepping into the crowded ballrooms with shorn curls, she leans not on the power of her looks, but on the steadfast man at her side.
