A young woman disappears. A husband is suspected of murder. Stirring times for all the neighbourhood. The Steepwood Scandal.

Demure vicar's daughter Robina Percival has relished her Season in Town – a definite change for the better after her somewhat straitened situation at home. But what is she to make of Daniel, Lord Exmouth? A widower with two daughters to raise, he appears to be in the market for a wife.

Discovering that she has more spirit than she realised, Robina holds back from encouraging her potential suitor. How can she be sure he hasn't buried his heart with his beautiful wife?