Alone in the dangerous world of Victorian London, Miss Elizabeth Barclay seeks sanctuary at the opulent establishment of Madam Portunio. Unaware of her beauty and too innocent to understand why Madam Portunio has offered her shelter, Elizabeth is horrified to find herself sold to the recently blinded, enigmatic Lord Danewood, who takes her to his country estate and forces her to act as his wife. Elizabeth soon realises that she is at the heart of a sinister intrigue. But, after sharing briefly the life of a man who has lied to her and so obviously despises her, why does she suddenly no longer want to escape from the hated role he has thrust upon her?