During the course of a single evening -- the night of the annual, prestigious Sweet Pea Ball -- two lives are about to be changed completely.

Natasha is one of the most beautiful women in London, but will not suffer fools, and finds most men arrogant beyond tolerance. Her mother, however, will have her married before the end of this, her third season, no matter what it takes, and Natasha will fight her every step of the way.

Seth Harrow, uncouth colonial sea captain, but dressed as a lord and carrying a secret in his heart, is in London for one purpose only before heading to Ireland to help an old friend. He will brook no delays, and has no time for giddy debutantes and the hypocrites of high society, but must face them to achieve his goal.

In one watershed night, Seth and Natasha will face hatred, bigotry and soul-searing passion. The outcome of that night will plunge them into a churning maelstrom of love, life ... and death.