On the brink of a disastrous marriage, Nicola Templeton finally rebels and flees to seek refuge with her sister. Charlotte’s own runaway marriage has already turned their father into an implacable foe and it seems that Nicola too may be cut off from her share of the family estate if she does not bow to his will. Soon, however, Nicola is drawn into the web of city life and is courted by Grant’s dashing young brother, Gillon. Innocent country girl or not, she is not dazzled by Gillon’s wit or deceived by his promises, for Gillon is penniless, if no less ambitious than his brother. Meanwhile, incensed by his daughters’ ingratitude, Lord Craigiehall has plans of his own for the future of his estates. These plans involve him with the notorious society hostess Lady Valerie Oliphant, as well as a pretty little actress whose wiles are more than equal to his own.