When Freya Pascoe accompanies Claudia Bryce to Derbyshire for a bet, the objectionable Miss Bryce is unaware that her paid companion is immensely wealthy, for Freya has promised not to reveal her circumstances to anyone. She is also attracted to Claudia's brother Piers, the handsome mill owner, who seems to reciprocate her feelings. Once in Derbyshire Derbyshire, she meets Lord Ravendale, Claudia's fiance, a man of unsavoury reputation and whose reasons for marrying are wholly mercenary. Almost against her will, Freya finds herself drawn to him. Gradually, she discovers that both Piers Bryce and Lord Ravendale differ from her expectations and a near tragedy at the mill reveals more about their true natures. To her dismay, Freya finds herself falling in love with Ravendale. But the earl cannot in honour withdraw from his engagement, even if he wanted to and in any case, will anyone trust her again when her true circumstances are revealed?