Jon Burwell, Viscount Kendall, knows what the gossips say about him. They claim he's been a dejected, half-mad recluse ever since he was jilted at the altar. The simple truth is that Jon has thrown all the passion he once had for his fianće into his latest mechanical invention. But his single-minded existence has lately been shattered by repeated encounters with Miss Emma Ellingham, his neighbor's intriguing sister-in-law... Painting and sketching have been Emma's consolation since her own secret heartbreak. When she stumbles upon the viscount's workshop, his machine revives her artistic imagination. The gentleman himself is even more fascinating--and deeply seductive. When Jon is accused of a crime, Emma risks her good name for his sake. But though the threat of scandal compels them to wed, only courage can overcome their pasts, and allow desire to transform into love.