Alex, Lord Grant, has sought out Lady Joanna to deliver on his promise to his best friend, the man who saved his life. He met Joanna at the wedding but has not seen her since. Because David was full of bitter comments about his wife, Alex has formed a low opinion of Joanna. His plans, once this errand is completed, are to travel to Scotland and take control of his estate until the Admiralty sends him out once again.

He is shocked when he calls on Lady Joanna to find her dressed in bold colors. There are no signs of mourning in the house and Lady Joanna is refusing another offer for her hand. Everything he sees of her seems to confirm all the negative comments made by David.

Only the contents of the letter to Joanna left by David will cause Alex to question his opinions of Joanna and David. David's letter tells of his illegitimate daughter in the Arctic and hints of a treasure. He requests that Joanna travel to the Arctic to bring his daughter home and raise her as her own. His desire isn't to provide a better life for the girl but to taunt Joanna with her existence. Alex's plans change when the letter also request that Alex act as Nina's guardian. Joanna and her friend, Mrs. Cummings, decide to retrieve Lord Ware's daughter and return with her to London. Alex insists on accompanying them, despite Joanna's reservations. The attraction between Alex and Joanna is strong and their marriage of convenience, intended to benefit the child, will not last long.

Ms. Cornick has written a strong story with a somewhat tragic heroine who has to overcome both physical and emotional trauma to build a a new life for herself. Readers may first think of Joanna as a shallow, selfish creature but will soon find themselves disabused of that notion as the full extent of the horrors of her marriage are exposed. They will grow to appreciate her strength in the face of staggering odds.

Alex is a strong man who finally faces the downfall of his hero and the fact that the woman he married is nothing like the woman David portrayed. As his dislike turns to admiration, he becomes a much more likable character. As usual, the author has created some strong secondary characters; some likable, some not.

Be prepared to laugh and cry as you read the heart-wrenching story of a marriage gone bad. The strength of the characters will draw you into this wonderful romance.

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