When Caroline Norton sped to Dorset to comfort her recently widowed niece, Melissa, she never imagined she'd encounter the devil incarnate in Melissa's own brother-in-law.

The arrogant earl of Devlon had torn himself away from the ton and come to Hollowsby to reclaim his family home at the expense of the poor, helpless young widow whom he considered a fortune hunter. What began as a mission of mercy had abruptly become a declaration of war! Suddenly Caroline was fighting for her honor and her life against an irresistible adversary...and her implacable heart!