When Kate Foster inherits a cottage in France from her aunt it seems like the perfect opportunity to turn it into a rural sanctuary for over-stressed executives. But the cottage stands in the grounds of Chateau Villeneuve, where Kate spent many happy childhood holidays, and Guy, Count de Villeneuve is adamant that he will not tolerate a Guest House on his estate.

Pushing on with her plans, Kate is devastated when a fire almost destroys the cottage. Believing she only means to use the cottage as a holiday home for herself, the Count insists on helping her to repair the damage.

As time passes it becomes increasingly difficult to tell him the truth, but Guy has persuasive ways, and even the beautiful, and indomitable Kate may have met her match.