In bestselling author Jo Goodman's captivating new quartet, you'll meet the four intriguing gentlemen of the Compass Club -- North, South, East, and West -- as they find adventure, excitement, and, of course, romance. Now, in book one of this sweeping and sensual series set in Regency England, join Brendan David Hampton, Earl of Northam, as he unravels a mystery...and the secrets of a woman's heart.

None of the four friends are yet wed, though the wagers are on North -- captivated by a most unique lady. Libby Penrose is wise, witty, beautiful, and quite determined to remain alone. But when the intrigues of a notorious jewel thief find them plotting together, a stolen kiss seals their fate as lovers -- yet leaves North with more questions about Libby than answers.

Despite her vow to deny her deep attraction to this powerful, sensual man, Libby surrenders to the breathless desire he awakens. She could not have imagined the whirlwind events that would find North accused of a crime...nor her own confession that would save him -- and compromise them both into matrimony. But sweet words of love remain unspoken and elusive. For Libby harbors a dark secret, one that threatens the untested bonds of her marriage. And soon fate will force her to make a harrowing choice: trust her husband...or lose him forever.