Having finally discovered the truth of her birthright, Julia Elliston is determined to outwit Chance Macy at his own game. Just when she thinks she’s managed to untangle herself from Macy’s clutches, he changes tactics with a risky ploy. As the scandal of the century breaks loose, drawing rooms all over London whisper what newspapers have not dared to print: Macy’s lost bride is none other than Lord Pierson’s daughter --- and one of the most controversial cases of marital law ever seen comes before Victorian courts.

Julia Elliston's life is swiftly dissolving into scandal. Now under the watchful eye of Lord Roy Pierson, one of the most influential men in England, Julia begrudgingly accepts his protection. But Chance Macy’s power is far-reaching as well, and he is eager to assert his claim over her. Thrust into society as the Emerald Heiress, Julia is the toast of London, a celebrated curiosity. But in reality, she’s trapped between the clutches of two powerful men.

Orphaned and unmarried in a time when women are legal property of their fathers, husbands and guardians, Julia Elliston finds herself at the mercy of an anonymous guardian who plans to establish her as a servant in far-off Scotland. But when a titled dowager offers to introduce Julia into society, a realm of possibilities opens. Before she knows what’s happening, Julia finds herself a pawn in a deadly game between two of the country’s most powerful men.