Book excerpt: The McJames clan's nemesis battles to overcome deceit while surrendering to desire in a sweeping Scottish romance from the author of In the Warrior's Bed. Laird Keir McQuade is a newcomer to his title and has much work before him to restore the McQuade honor. Finding a wife is an excellent start. He's duty-bound to go to court and swear homage to his king anyway, a perfect opportunity—were not court women trussed in stupid fashions and corrupted with false mannerisms. Of course, not every lady hides behind a powdered face . . . Helena Knyvett may be a daughter of the aristocracy, but in truth she is little but a pawn in her brother's ploys for power. Her smallest acts of defiance carry a heavy price. But one honorable man among a crowd of dandies could give her all she needs to change her fortunes—and set her free . . . Among the ruthless ambitions of England's powerful, love at first sight is a dangerous game. But the treachery, scandal, and treason that follow can unleash as much passion as it does adventure . . . Praise for Mary Wine and her novels “Deeply romantic, scintillating, and absolutely delicious.” —Sylvia Day, New York Times bestsellingauthor “My kind of historical! . . . sweeps you into the time period without taking a thing away from delightful characters and a charming romance . . . definitely a must-read.” —Heather Graham, New York Times bestselling author “Dramatic and vivid . . . Scorching love scenes threaten to set the sheets aflame.” —Publishers Weekly (starred review)