A moment so tremendous, so sharp and breathtaking, that one knows one's life will never be the same. For Michael Stirling, London's most infamous rake, that moment came the first time he laid eyes on Francesca Bridgerton.

After a lifetime of chasing women, of smiling slyly as they chased him, of allowing himself to be caught but never permitting his heart to become engaged, he took one look at Francesca Bridgerton and fell so fast and hard into love it was a wonder he managed to remain standing. Unfortunately for Michael, however, Francesca's surname was to remain Bridgerton for only a mere thirty-six hours longer — the occasion of their meeting was, lamentably, a supper celebrating her imminent wedding to his cousin.But that was then . . . Now Michael is the earl and Francesca is free, but still she thinks of him as nothing other than her dear friend and confidant. Michael dares not speak to her of his love . . . until one dangerous night, when she steps innocently into his arms, and passion proves stronger than even the most wicked of secrets . . .

After only two years of marriage, her husband John, the Earl of Kilmartin, dies and Francesca Bridgerton is left tragically widowed at a young age. She turns to Michael Stirling, John's first cousin and closest friend, for comfort only to have him flee the country and abandon her out of fear of acting on his longandndash;harboured forbidden love for her.

When Michael finally returns, everything is different and the air is charged with possibility. After four years of mourning John, Francesca is quite certain she will never love again, but thinks she can be content with someone else. However, Michael's passionate feelings toward Francesca have never wavered and he is willing to sacrifice everything to convince her that his love is strong enough for them both.