A spirited debutante’s good intentions go terribly, deliciously awry in a novel by “one of the most exciting new historical writers in a long time” (Julia Quinn, New York Times–bestselling author of the Bridgerton novels).

Christopher Beck comes striding into a glamorous London drawing-room and can’t believe his eyes. The last time he’d seen Gwendolyn Penhallow, she was a dreamy, strong-willed girl with a wild imagination, and now she’s a beautiful and beguiling young lady . . . who’s engaged to Society’s darling, the Earl of Westenbury. Christopher had fled England to seek adventure elsewhere. Has he found it here too—the most delightful adventure of his life?

Gwendolyn is sure she’s betrothed to the most wonderful man in the world. But then, shockingly, Christopher Beck shows up. Nobody has heard from him in years—and not only he is very much alive, he’s also sinfully attractive, blithely unconventional, and disturbingly fun to be with. Which wouldn’t be a problem, except for the fact that she’s, well, promised to another. And just what on earth is she going to do about it?

“Beguiling . . . full of witty banter and sweet romance . . . This expertly plotted love story is a must-read for Regency fans.” —Publishers Weekly

“A delightfully done friends-to-lovers love story that is fueled by equal measures of sweet charm, sharp wit, and heart-melting sexual chemistry." — Booklist (starred review)

“Jane Austen would approve.” —Historical Novel Society