He's a powerful landowner...
She's an irresistible wallflower...

For nearly a year, Victoria Leighton has shut out the world. Her sole focus has been on paying off the debt she inherited from her husband and securing a comfortable income. Unaccustomed to independence, to stepping out into Society and getting noticed, she ignores the cravings of her heart. Until a stranger arrives on her doorstep and presents her with a daring invitation.

Colin West hates complications. But when he seeks shelter from a storm and meets a reclusive widow, duty compels him to save her from her self-imposed prison. Soon, he's hosting a house party and doing his best not to fall for the kindhearted beauty. To do so would be disastrous. For if the scars he received in war have taught him anything, it is that he is incapable of instilling desire in any woman, never mind love...