"It was as if a new song entered his world, or a new taste, or a new sense -- and yet, one instantly recognized.

Rob Loxsleigh turned to look around the park, striving to make the movement casual to his chattering companions, so noisy in their silks and lace, but already fading under the power of his new awareness. There.

He smiled, with delight but with surprise.

The woman in gray? The one strolling through the park at the side of another woman just as ordinary, wearing a plain gown with little trimming and a flat straw hat?

She was his destined bride?"

Rob's been searching for his bride all his adult life and has only days left before Faery can claim a terrible victory over his family and his line.

Now he's found her, however, he has to win her, and Martha Darby wants nothing to do with a London rake, in his satin and lace. She's the respectable daughter of a Dean of York Cathedral, and as soon as Rob shows interest, she heads resolutely north.

Thus follows a lively pursuit, as every kiss increases Rob's legendary powers, and warring Oberon and Titania urge on their representatives.