She must marry for her family’s future. He must never marry at all.

Spring, 1805. Nineteen-year-old Allegra Constantine is under pressure to choose a husband, but none of her suitors inspire her. Lord Milton is respectable but passionless, Sir Harry is charming but witless, and the dangerously handsome Mr Englishby has designs she cannot trust. The only man who truly interests her is Max Severin – cynical, scandal-shadowed, and not at all a suitable prospect.

But when a stolen kiss ignites a fire between them, Allegra realises she is in more danger from her heart than from society’s gossip. Because Max carries a secret so perilous, it could ruin them both. And when long-buried truths about Allegra’s family and Max’s past come to light, the consequences threaten more than her reputation. Torn between duty and desire, Allegra must choose: a safe, sensible marriage… or risking scandal, ruin, and her very future for the only man she has ever truly loved.

Praise for Emma Orchard:

'An exciting new talent' - KATIE FFORDE

'Hot stuff. I loved it!' - FERN BRITTON

'Absolutely glorious' - SOPHIE IRWIN

'A delicious Regency romp' - ALAN TITCHMARSH

'Sensual and exciting' - HEIDI SWAIN

'Heyer with spice!' - LIZ FENWICK

'Witty, heartfelt, deeply emotionally authentic and incredibly sexy' - KATY MORAN

'Sexy, seductive and swoon worthy' - SARAH BENNETT

'Witty, spicy, seductive' - HANNAH DOLBY

'Perfect for fans of Bridgerton' - DARCIE BOLEYN

'Fans of Heyer and Bridgerton rejoice!' - CHARLOTTE BUTTERFIELD

'A delicious slice of escapism' - LAURA WOOD

'Heart-thumping romance' - JENNI KEER