To save her destitute family, Persephone Lancaster accepts a marriage proposal from Adam Boyce, the mysterious Duke of Kielder, the most feared man in the kingdom.

Though Adam is still confusing and distant, glimpses of the good man behind the frightening facade give Persephone some hope for their future.

Attempting to connect with the woman he has begun to love, Adam offers to bring Persephone's brother to Falstone, as well as host a ball.

A horrible riding accident in the dangerous forest leaves Persephone badly injured and drives home for Adam just how deeply he has come to love her.