A Regency romance driven by secret longings and scandalous crimes—from the New York Times–bestselling author of the Agatha Raisin mysteries. Matilda, Duchess of Hadshire, was a virtual prisoner of a cruel husband who romanced his mistress right under the duchess's nose. Her only joy was dreaming of the handsome Earl of Torridon—for he, like her, was trapped in a horrid marriage and longed to find true love and happiness. Though she secretly wished for the death of her unkind husband, Matilda never imagined the guilt that would plague her when the illustrious duke was befittingly murdered by his own regular lady! When Matilda turned to Torridon for comfort, she discovered a few surprises in store for both of them . . . Praise for M.C. Beaton "A romance writer who deftly blends humor and adventure . . . [sustaining] her devoted audience to the last gasp." — Booklist "Veteran author Marion Chesney (aka M.C. Beaton) delivers top-notch Regency fare." — RT Book Reviews