Enter the Duke of Heron, thirty-six, aloof, bored but possessing a keen sense of humor and respectability. Pandora, at nineteen, is orphaned and her father was involved in some sort of military blunder before his death. She feels compelled to make her way in the world and appeals to Heron for the position of governess. She learned from an old family friend that he has been made the guardian to two young children. Since this same family friend has told Heron she wanted to help him find a wife, he is confused and appalled by Pandora's request and thinks she is applying to be his wife! How shocking, yet how intriguing, when he realizes the mistake.

The rest of the novel moves through various stages of the Season and how Heron succeeds in making many of Pandora's wishes come true. He assists (behind the scenes) in solving many problems that crop up along the way. He puzzles over why he wants to help this young woman but of course we realize he is falling in love, even if he does not. Pandora, too, matures during this time, leaving her childish infatuation with one of Courtney's friend behind her as she explores the depth of her feelings for Heron. After they marry, there are the normal "getting to know you" problems, plus danger appears in the form of a jealous woman. The story moved rapidly and without the drawn out misunderstandings rampant in other Regency novels. You must read this book and meet all the other people from the balloonist to Heron's grandmother. Wonderful must read!

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