The fifth book in M.C. Beaton's charming Edwardian Candlelight series.

Poor little Susie. A beautiful dreamer, she imagined herself happy in a rose-covered cottage, only to find herself mistress of a great damp castle and wife to the elderly Earl of Blackhall. Luck, not the lecherous earl, contrived to spare her and by her wedding night she was transformed to a wealthy young widow.

But her trials had just begun. The old countess was determined to turn the simple country miss into a sophisticated lady. Meanwhile, handsome Sir Giles was determined to unmask her as a dangerously cunning young minx. Sweet, naive Susie. Luck had brought her a fortune she'd never wished for, but what stroke of fortune could make her dreams of real and innocent love come true?

The Edwardian Candlelight Series chronicles young, passionate girls who come to understand the nature of true love despite overwhelming odds. From a penniless pauper, a stenographer, a governess to an accused murderess, these ladies in love overcome incredible odds with grit and sophistication to find and keep true love.