The young viscount nearly runs down a young woman with his carriage . The fateful encounter, and a rash decision, changes their lives forever. Lord Humphrey Dewesbury, heir to the Earl of Dewesbury, is a dutiful son. He's expected to honor an alliance that was concocted when he was boy. But he doesn't want to offer for the annoying Augusta Ratcliffe. Joan Chadwick, an orphened vicar's daughter, faces a dreary life as a governess. Neither wants to embrace their separate fates. Together, they can save each other. There's just one problem to overcome - family expectations. All of the Dewesburys and the Ratcliffes are gathered at Dewesbury Court, expecting one betrothal, and are shocked that the viscount has contrated an altogether different one. A light-hearted, historical comedy romance.