When a traveling peddler, Eric Pennington, tries to protect Bethany Whitcombe, he ends up with a broken arm . . . and the need for an ally to help him complete the work he is doing to bring an end to war against Napoleon. But lies compound one on top of the other until Bethany has no idea who is being honest, though she knows she finds Eric's kisses delightful. When a neighbor, after she refuses his proposal, accuses her of being Eric's mistress, shock fills her when Eric does not hesitate to lie and say that they are lovers. Her father insists on a marriage to protect her. Why would Eric want to marry her? He tells her it is to keep her safe because he cannot stay at her family's house much longer. Maybe that is true, but what other lies has Eric Pennington spoken? As the truth begins to come to light, Bethany discovers she has a most unexpected husband who may hold not only the key to victory or defeat for England, but the key to her heart as well.