Prince Damien Alexander II is next in line to the throne of the kingdom of Cardenas — a fact his parents never let him forget. Because in order to be a suitable ruler, he must settle down with a wife of his choosing, produce an heir, and become serious about matters of crown and country.

There’s just one problem. Alex enjoys being a bachelor and is in no rush to give up his lifestyle of freedom and debauchery. When his parents urge him to consider the eligible women attending an upcoming house party, he can think of nothing worse. That is, until he lays eyes on Lady Lucille Wakefield.

It’s been 15 years since Alex last saw Lucille, and the annoying little girl he used to torment is now a woman…an infuriatingly high-handed shrew of a woman. Lucky for him, when his friends decide the lady is in need of a good debauching, he’s chosen as the man for the job.

Determined to win his bet by seducing her straight into bed, Alex pursues Lucille relentlessly. Too bad she’s not the least bit interested in him or his charms. Her family’s good name has been tarnished before, and she has no intention of risking it again for one night with a prince. However, when a sinister plot against the royal family puts her in harm’s way, she finds herself thrust right into Alex’s arms…and under his protection.

With both her reputation and heart on the line, can the roguish prince grow into the sort of man the reluctant lady deserves, or will Lucille keep her walls up, locking Alex out forever?