Book excerpt: Mrs. Claudine Grant married when she was eighteen and lost her husband less than six months later to the ravages of war. Her heart is too bruised for anymore foolish whims, and she's determined to never marry again. Hudson Lockley, the Earl of Wyndam has led a decadent life. He doesn't believe in love or marriage, but he does believe in pleasure. He lost both of his parents as a boy and was raised by his grandmother. He refuses to allow anything emotional into his life. One major devastation was enough to turn him cold—except in bed. Claudine befriends Hudson's grandmother. They cross paths often, and over time Claudine wonders what a night of true passion would be like. The earl would make a spectacular rogue for one night... Seduction takes them down an unexpected path and perhaps an all-consuming love neither had planned.