Marcus Adair, the Duke of Beargarner, has a secret: due to the gross overspending of his father, his dukedom is on the verge of bankruptcy. When his friend suggests he court Lady Godiva, daughter of the Earl of Garland, it seems like a marriage of convenience is the perfect solution. She'll get the benefits of his title and protection, and he'll get access to her father's shipping empire. But when Marcus meets Godiva, he's enchanted by her beauty and her bravery. A marriage in name only is no longer an option.

Yet Godiva has been burned before, and she's vowed not to trust any man. Shunned by the ton for her portly appearance, Godiva has already had three marriage proposals broken. All that remains in her future, she thinks, is loneliness. Marcus seems like he could offer her more, a life that truly has joy in it, until she learns he's seeking her out for her father's contacts. With this new betrayal, Godiva is certain she's done with love.

To win her heart, Marcus must convince Godiva that she's truly the bold, brilliant woman he sees. Can Godiva forget the past to welcome a future with her lord?

Previously published as The Siege of Lady Aloria. This edition has been re-edited.