Still, she perseveres, showing up at an inn in response to a cryptic message in the newspaper. What she doesn't expect is that others are seeking information, as well, and Audrianna finds herself alone in a room with Lord Sebastian, one of the members of Parliament who hounded her father to death.

Crime or no crime, society demands its penance for a young, unmarried woman found alone at an inn with a man. Audrianna and Sebastian choose to marry to avoid the scandal. Although they are on opposite sides of the issues surrounding her father, a mutual attraction makes the idea easier to bear.

As they become adapted to each other and the idea of being married, both of them choose to continue investigating the ammunition fiasco. Can their fledgling marriage survive whatever they find out?

I must admit to an internal groan whenever I read another historical "forced-to-be-married" book, but Madeline Hunter, as always, sails right through my reservations. I like that the relationship between Audrianna and Sebastian is not hostile. The two are kind, caring people in an untenable situation, and you can't help but admire how they handle themselves. The drama in this book primarily comes from the plot outside of the relationship, making it an excellent read. While there is tension between the main characters, of course, you'll enjoy watching them fall in love and solve a mystery at the same time.

I am an unabashed fan of Ms. Hunter's and every time I read one of her books, I become more impressed with her abilities. I particularly appreciate the characters, most of whom I fall in love with myself.

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