Stranded in Regency England, William "Will" Bartram, Duke of Manford, and his two brothers are trying to make the best of living in the past after their starship was caught in a celestial storm. Their parents died in a carriage accident five years ago but left their sons with titles and loads of money. Will decides it is time to find a wife and has made a list of the most eligible young women who will be in London for the season. His plans are thrown into turmoil, however, by an encounter with beautiful Lady Julia Gravenhorst at an inn on his way to the city. Julia's low opinion of the duke after their encounter makes it difficult for Will to persuade her to like him. But he is persistent, not giving up even when it appears that attracting Julia will be impossible.