Short Synopsis
As reluctant business partners, Emma Fairbourne's defiance and Darius Alfreton's demands make it difficult to manage one of London's most eminent auction houses. But their passionate personalities find common ground in an unforgettable affair—until the devastating truth behind their partnership comes to light.

Full Synopsis
A woman running a prestigious London auction house? Preposterous! But that is exactly what Emma Fairbourne intends to do when her father dies, leaving her the reins of this fabulous enterprise.  Of course, she is not addlepated enough to do this openly and scare away her wealthy collectors.  So she and her friend concoct a deception, hiring a handsome and charming front man who will do her bidding . . .
 
All would have proceeded smoothly—if it weren't for the maddening interference of Darius, the arrogant Earl of Southwaite, who has been her father's "silent partner" and now shares ownership of Fairbourne's.  An earl, of course, has no interest in running an auction house—and Darius is certainly not interested in allowing the lovely Miss Fairbourne to run it either, her ludicrous scheme notwithstanding.  Clearly the business must be sold.
 
But the headstrong Emma is like no other lady he has ever encountered, refusing to follow his dictates.  Holding his temper in check, Darius decides to attack on a different front.  There is another way to achieve her surrender, one far more pleasurable for both of them . . .

"Richly imbued with a deliciously dry sense of humor and graced with a striking cast of characters, the latest impeccably researched Regency romance by RITA Award winner Hunter is a masterpiece of wit and passion." ---Booklist Starred Review

"Clever plotting, delicious sensuality, excellent art history elements, and strong, magnetic characters will attract [listeners] to this engaging and beautifully executed romance, the first in a projected series." ---Library Journal

Booklist Review