A career diplomat pursues his perfect match in this charming Regency romance set in the delightful world of bestselling author Ella Quinn's much-loved Worthingtons and their extended family—where true love is the ultimate temptation.
After years stationed in Spain as a diplomate with Britain's Foreign Service, the time has come for Mr. Walter Carpenter, brother-in-law to the Earl of Worthington, to marry. But Walter's plans to wed his true love—and lover—the daughter of the Spanish Foreign Minister, soon come to an abrupt and shocking end. Despondent, and afraid he can never trust another lady, he returns to England, knowing he must find a wife. But can he marry without love?
Miss Catherine Stratford, daughter of a career diplomate, was drawn to handsome, heroic, and not least of all kind Walter Carpenter the first time she met him at the age of sixteen. Yet just as she was to make her come out, her family moved to Vienna. No other man has captivated her since. With a mandate to wed, her parents have sent her to relatives in England to find a husband.
Catherine is exhilarated to discover that Mr. Carpenter is also present with the same mission. As a series of matchmaking house parties commences she hopes he will emerge from his darkness to see her as a love he can trust—and most of all, love in return. But to find their way to one another, they will have to navigate the other eligible ladies and gentlemen in attendance, Walter's fears—and one long held secret Catherine must ultimately reveal . . .
