What the Scoundrel Desires

Iona Shaughnessy has had enough of pitying glances and whispered speculation about her failed betrothal. When her mother insists that she secure a husband before Society brands her a pariah, Iona concocts the perfect solution: an imaginary suitor. She claims to be corresponding with an earl conveniently abroad, a gentleman she’s never met and who knows nothing of her scheme. Her plan works brilliantly—until the earl himself appears on her doorstep.

Sebastian Mandeville is not who Iona thinks. Still, the rogue is happy to let the beautiful redhead believe he’s her invented beau, especially when she begs him to play along just long enough for her to stage a graceful end to their “courtship.” Sebastian has never been one to turn down harmless flirtation and stolen kisses. Nor does he have any trouble walking away.

But when he falls for the clever, spirited woman behind the ruse, he faces an impossible choice: walk away with a broken heart or confess his deception and risk losing her forever.