Anthea Halliwell's once-bright future is cruelly taken from her the moment she is accused of stealing a necklace dripping with rubies and diamonds and attempting to sell it.

Her beloved Captain Crispin breaks off their engagement at the first hint of scandal and marries her friend instead. Then to make matters worse, her father gambles away their fortune.

Heartbroken and penniless, Anthea is forced to beg handsome Gideon Rodrigo for help. But she never expects him to propose.

It may be a marriage of convenience for Anthea, but Gideon will do anything to clear his wife's name.

Gideon enlists the help of John and Lydia Savidge, who have their own reputation for solving crimes.

While tongues wag and suspicions mount, John and Lydia suspect more than theft and slander are at play.

And someone is killing to keep their secrets hidden . . .