\"Witty, sardonic and with an eye for beautiful ladies, the handsome Marquis of Rakecliffe has earned himself the nickname, ? Rake? amongsthis friends and family. As he cuts a swathe through the glitteringballs and elegant soirees of London society he is pursued bydebutantes and married hostesses alike. Admired by men, including the Prince of Wales, for his intelligence, bravery and ability to take on any challenge to defend his country it seems the Marquis lives acharmed life. Beautiful Lanthia Grenville is a stranger to the cityand the new fashions set by the Prince of Wales and his wild, funloving ? Marlborough House set?. Leaving her sheltered life in thecountry for a shopping trip chaperoned by the kindly Mrs Blossom, Lanthia looks forward to an exciting stay at the celebrated hotel, The Langham. But it seems that the Marquis? luck has finally run outafter a liaison with a beautiful Spanish Contessa inflames thejealousy of her fiery husband. Eager to avoid a duel, he flingshimself upon the mercy of Lanthia persuading her to enter into asecret pact to avoid social ruin. Protected by her doting parents anddreaming of true love, travel and adventure, Lanthia is suddenlyplunged into more excitement than she could ever have imagined astheir ruse threatens to be uncovered. As friendships are tested to the limits and danger threatens will Lanthia be the one to halt the Rakes progress and teach him the meaning of true love, loyalty andfidelity? Or will the fanatical Conté ultimately wreak his revenge and shatter the lives of everyone? \"
