Seduction in the palazzo! Ever since a horrific accident, for which he blames himself, Danilo Raphael has kept himself closed off and emotion-free. But when he sees English Rose Tess Jones being attacked he cannot quell his protective instincts and offers her sanctuary...in his imposing Tuscan palazzo. Tess might be a virgin, but she knows what she wants in a man - and this autocratic Italian, no matter how darkly sexy, isn't it! But as hot summer days melt into sultry nights Tess finds herself surrendering to Danilo. Their passion changes Tess irrevocably, but she must leave unless Danilo surrenders the past that holds him back...