A hugely entertaining, witty story of love and discovery in Regency England, from one of Britain's most accomplished writers of historical fiction. At the Devonshire estate of Pennacombe House, Sir Clement Carnell exerts the full weight of his oppressive influence on his children, Valentine and Louisa, ensuring they enjoy themselves as little as possible. But when Sir Carnell dies, the siblings discover a world of possibilities awaits them. Released from their father's control, they begin to make changes to their tedious existence. And when their estranged cousins -- the enchanting Tom and Sophie Spedding - come to stay, Valentine and Louisa's eyes are opened to a more liberal, exciting way of living. When Valentine and Louisa are invited to London by their new found friends, they are thrilled. But will city life bring them the happiness they deserve, or will its new temptations do them far more harm than good?