For a woman on the run...Gemma Cassidy is the daughter of an earl-on the wrong side of the blanket. To make her way in the world, and escape her abusive father, Gemma will have to get her hands dirty. Masquerading as a stableboy, she realizes she isn't only spying on the best horseracing stable in England, but the most magnificent duke in the land.And a man always in control...The Duke of Rakesley has everything under control-as usual. He's a man who knows what he wants and how to get it, like choosing a duchess who will fit into his well-ordered life without fuss. Then Gemma comes along and plays havoc with Rake's idea of the future-but he can't help wanting to get closer to all of her beautiful chaos.When passion flares, all bets are off...Working closely together reveals a powerful passion that neither of them can deny. Rake knows he wants more than a temporary arrangement, but Gemma refuses to settle for the half-life her mother had as the earl's mistress. Yet the future isn't as clear-or as cold-as either had envisioned. Can two independent souls surrender to their hearts' desire?