After more than twenty years, Olivia, Duchess of Brandhurst, is finally free--free from the shackles of a loveless marriage to a cruel, domineering husband. And in one reckless night of passion, she experiences that freedom--in the arms of Will Barnes, a youthful gardener she meets by chance in the moonlight of a garden, a man forbidden to her by the unwritten laws of Victorian society.

Once the night is over, Livie returns to her role of grieving widow. But memories of that night haunt Livie--and Will as well. Unable to forget her or the fierce emotions she inspires in him, he returns. With his working-class back-ground and artistic talents, Will is unlike anyone Livie has ever known. Despite the scandal that threatens their love, and the differences between them, she cannot resist him or the beauty he brings to her life. But when Livie's enemies try to destroy her with vicious accusations about her marriage, Will is determined to save her, even if it means giving her up. Somehow, Livie must prove to him that their passion is worth any sacrifice, and that he is much more than the duchess' lover--he is her love...