An independent lady is accidentally betrothed to a spy with a mysterious past in this Regency gem from beloved, award-winning author Kate Moore. A volume of tips for the marriage-minded brought them together, but their sweeping adventure will change all the rules of engagement . . .

When her desperate mother sends her The Husband Hunter's Guide to London, outspoken Emily Radstock rails against the slim book of manners, boldly declaring that she should wed the first "imbecile" she meets and be done with the matter. Too bad Sir Ajax Lynley overhears her outrageous proposal and holds her to it. But he's no dullard-he's a wily government agent who needs the cover of a beautiful fiance to pursue a deadly enemy. To resist his charms, Emily turns to the guide she disdains-and does exactly the opposite. Dress fashionably? She enshrouds herself in black crepe. Be demure? She steps into danger and faces down criminals alongside her "intended" . . . whose thrilling seduction may be anything but a charade.

Praise for Kate Moore's previous novels

"Moore writes with a lyrical beauty that will leave no heart untouched." -RT Book Reviews

"Fans will hope for more of Moore's sinful delights to come." -Library Journal (starred review)

"Moore skillfully whets readers' appetites . . ." -Booklist