They planned to hate each other …
England 1801: LADY LOUISA, daughter of the EARL OF WHICKERTON, prided herself on her composure—until PHINEAS HAWKE, VISCOUNT BARRINGTON, with his devilish grin and eyes like storm clouds, unraveled her.
First they clashed …
At an unremarkable ball, Phineas uncovers Louisa’s most mortifying secret, and he teases her mercilessly. Each glance, each smirk from him, is a silent duel, challenging her to maintain her poise while her heart races. Louisa vows to shield her emotions, her determination fueled by a mix of irritation and an unspoken desire.
… then they kissed.