A girl with nothing to lose, and an Earl who cares for nothing. Ruined before she was properly presented to society, Amanda is offered an unexpected escape: a boyhood friend of her father's, the notorious Lord Rackington, offers to marry her. With a husband twice her age and an unwanted child on the way, Amanda despairs of ever finding the loving companionship she dreamed of. Can she at least avenge the wrongs she has suffered? Lucian has never ceased to regret that he could not save his sister from a tragic fate and early death. Offering marriage to young Amanda is a chivalrous impulse at first, but as he gets to know her better he sees a chance of redemption. Unless Amanda finds someone younger and less tarnished, once she becomes a celebrated society hostess... As they cope with intrigue, tragic family secrets, mysterious potions and stolen jewels Lucian and Amanda cautiously learn to understand each other. Will they discover in time that they are stronger together than apart? Note: This is a standalone novel, not part of any series (at least so far). The back story contains elements that might shock sensitive souls, but they lie in the past by the time the story begins.