A captivating story of romance, passion and adventure set in nineteenth century London and Italy.

London 1859. Carina Temple has put away the stifling black crepe demanded by the death of her father - but with it she has also cast aside society's expectations of what a single young lady should be and do.

When Carina's uncle summons her to Belgrave Square to inform her that her reputation is ruined, thanks to a certain Lord Danby, he tells her that she must travel to Italy until the gossip recedes and a suitable match can be found for her.

But Italy is a tempestuous place - her grandmother and cousins soon tell her of the fault lines between the states and the dangerous rebels fighting for freedom. Chief among these is Ben Mavrone - and when he and Carina meet, he distrusts her society pedigree, and she considers him a violent extremist.

When trouble comes to Carina's door, it is Ben who saves her - reluctantly - and as they go on the run, they must learn to understand each other to stay alive.

Meanwhile back in England, Carina's family has plans for the life Miss Temple should lead - if she ever returns...