Venetia was very lonely after the death of her parents, so when her cousin Mary begged her to save her from a forced marriage, Venetia was ready. Mary was in love with another man and expecting his child, yet the queen wanted her to marry the Earl of Mountwood at a moment's notice and go with him to India. A reckless impulse made Venetia promise to take Mary's place at the altar; she would worry about the consequences later.
Lord Mountwood was handsome, but he was also haughty and autocratic, demanding instant obedience from his servants—and from his wife. When he discovered the trick Venetia had played on him he was furious. She had only her quick wits to protect her from his wrath. On the journey to India they quarreled and sparred, each getting the measure of the other, while the growing attraction between them became impossible to ignore.
In India they traveled to the northwest frontier, to a fort that was under constant attack by the Russians. And there, just as she and her husband discovered their love, they were caught up in danger that threatened to part them.
If you like Downton Abbey you will love Barbara Cartland.
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