One thousand ladies want his attention. He only wants one. Too bad he doesn’t know her name.

Eschewing his privileged life as heir to an automaton empire, William Ashton, Jr. spends his days diving into research and pining for the young woman who frequents his branch of the NYPL. Until one careless word from his mother leaves him with every Knickerbocker princess and penniless chambermaid eager to become his date for the biggest New Year’s Gala in Manhattan.

Maddie Peters has long admired sweet and shy librarian Will Ashton, but his family’s position in high society means anything more than friendship is a fantasy. When a letter arrives to say that Will has invited her to his mother’s exclusive party, Maddie is flabbergasted. She’s sure it’s a mistake, but she’s not one to waste the opportunity to woo him.

Angry neighbors, meddling guardians, and rampaging mechanical dragons all threaten Will and Maddie’s chance at holiday romance. But when the clock strikes midnight, these two lovers might find they have what it takes to wind up in each other’s arms.