Lottie sells off most of her gowns and jewelry. When that money runs out, she offers her services to one of the most notorious brothel owners in all of London. However, the life of a whore is far different than Lottie could comprehend. She no longer has a choice in who she sleeps with, and the men who come to her are often men she spurned when she was married.

At her darkest moment, Lottie receives an offer from Ethan Ryder to pose as his mistress. She knows he is up to something but his wealth and good looks make him a much better option than any other choices she might have. Lottie accepts his offer. As she is shopping to replenish her wardrobe, Lottie runs into her brother who convinces her that it is her duty to spy on Ethan for the government. In return, he promises to get her a stipend with which she can support herself.

Ethan Ryder is the illegitimate son of an Irish Duke and a circus performer. He has a fortune but the treatment he received as a boy causes him to throw in his lot with the French cavalry. A brilliant and daring attitude helped him rise through the ranks until his capture. Now on parole in England, the British government has also captured his son. Even though, Ethan lives a short distance from the prison where his son is held, he is not allowed to see him. Ethan has drafted a plan which will set all of England on its ears. Lottie is just the diversion he needs. None of the authorities watching over him will believe he is plotting anything with such a lovely mistress at his beck and call.

Nothing will go as either Lottie or Ethan plan. Lottie will insinuate herself into his life and that of the town in ways that he least expects. Ethan's understanding and attention will soothe the feelings of inadequacy that Lottie has felt all her life. She will be drawn to him even as she fights to remain aloof knowing that she plans to betray him.

This is the second in a trilogy. Ms. Cornick has taken a character who is rather unlikable and turned her into one that the reader can sympathize with. As we learn more about her background, we begin to realize that Lottie has never had anyone who loved her just for herself. Her antics and affairs are the only way she knows to get the attention she desires. As we begin to understand the reasons for her behavior, it is much easier to forgive her and accept that she doesn't really know how to express her love for others.

Ethan is revealed to be a deeply unhappy individual who can understand and appreciate Lottie because his life was much the same. His choices were different and led him to a life which would overthrow all the life his father led. As the two begin a relationship, they will find themselves torn between what they have sworn to do and what they want to do.

This is a wonderfully written story with two deeply conflicted characters. The insights we gain into their lives and hearts will engross and delight the reader.

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