Handsome scoundrel Quin Hewitt has been living a devil-may-care existence for years. But when his father dies unexpectedly, Quin finds himself saddled with an earldom he never wanted and a mama who won't quit crying.

Reluctantly, Quin faces up to his family duty and decides to find himself a sensible, suitable wife. And who better than his best friend's governess, the proud and pretty Miss Esme Hamilton?

But when Quin's euphoric mother throws an impromptu betrothal party, Quin finds himself faced with an unexpected guest. The beautiful Viviana Alessandri, no longer the unknown opera singer Quin once kept as his mistress, is now the powerful Contessa Bergonzi di Vicenza, worshiped throughout Europe for her voice and passion. But despite her new title and wealth, to Quin's eyes his old love has not changed. She is not suitable. She is not sensible. And she still takes his breath away.