Ann Wyatt would do anything to escape a destiny determined by her merchant father and the shackles of an arranged marriage. When a mysterious stranger takes up a position in her father's household, Ann finds herself being drawn into the dangerous, erotic grip of a servant with a secret past, a double life and a dangerous agenda. But how can love survive between a lady and her servant? William Hyde, tall, handsome, and well-spoken has taken employment in the Wyatt mansion on recommendation from no less than the Duke of Arundel. Unbeknown to Ann and the rest of the household, this new guard is the Duke himself. Driven undercover by the horrific murder of his younger brother, the Duke, masquerading as servant William, is determined to find the locals responsible for the murder. Immediately entranced by the master's daughter, William's plans are overcome by his unstoppable passion. With ever more shocking revelations about his late brother's life, William is torn by his need to avenge a loved-one's death and a passionate desire to be with the young woman who he is paid to protect. Will the truth bring them closer together or tear them apart?