Harry Morant has come to accept the fact that ladies of Quality don't give him the time of day except for bed sport. He doesn't believe in love and wants to marry a respectable middle-class girl, reasoning that she'll be more likely to remain faithful. He’s so uninspired by the whole notion that he’s letting his aunt arrange the marriage.

Lady Helen (Nell) Freymore’s father lost their home in a card game, then died, leaving massive debt. Harry is buying the house. When he finally meets Nell and realizes she's being forced to leave, he impulsively proposes marriage. After all, he admits to being powerfully attracted to her. She's flattered and attracted to him as well, but she has a secret that she knows will make him leave her when he learns of it, so she must turn him down. Will Harry just let her go, or will he find true love after all?

When I read how Harry got his limp, I swear I felt a small piece of my heart break off and lodge in my throat. The fact that he turns out to be so caring and lovable after everything he's endured in his life is nothing short of a miracle. Anyone who knows me knows I’m a total sucker for a damaged hero and Harry is a truly remarkable character.