Aurelia Goldsworthy is both an orphan and an heiress?a lady of no known origin, whose anonymous benefactor spared no expense on her wardrobe and education. For five years, she has believed herself to be the promised bride of the Duke of Brantingham, a man she has never met. She travels to London to take her place in His Grace's life, only to realize that she's been the victim of a bizarre, misguided prank.

After mourning the death of his mother, Selwyn Charlton, the Duke of Brantingham is ready to return to society. He is excited to host his family's annual Christmas gathering in London, yet an unannounced visit from a beautiful young lady throws his steady, dutiful life out of order.

Selwyn longs to celebrate the festive season with Miss Goldsworthy, as the mystery of her origin?and the identity of the person who'd involved them both in a marriage scheme?intrigues him. But when the truth of Aurelia's birth comes to light, she and Selwyn must join hands, stand strong in the face of scandal, and place their trust in the healing spirit of Christmas.