Their brilliant plan, Tempera Rothley reflected, had brought utter disaster.

Left penniless by the death of Lord Rothley, she and her beautiful young stepmother had no hope but to marry as soon as possible. Lady Rothley's chance came first: a house party in the south of France hosted by the elegant, eligible Duke of Chevingham.

The invitation created one problem: the Duke expected his guest to bring her Lady's maid. Hiring one was out of the question. Tempera would have to accompany her stepmother disguised as a maid.

Here she was--miserable amidst the lush beauty of the Riviera--a frightened, insignificant Lady's maid falling in love with a Duke.