1828, the London countryside. For years, Marietta Stone has harbored a secret infatuation for Frederick Finch and has poured out her deepest feelings in a series of love letters that she keeps in a locked drawer. But when Marietta's private letters are accidentally delivered to Frederick's house, she must retrieve them immediately. When Gerard Hartwell discovers Marietta's letters at his cousin Frederick's estate, he strikes a bargain with her. If she helps him court her older sister, he will help Marietta win Frederick's heart. Yet, the more time he spends with Marietta, the more Gerard wishes he could court her. Can he persuade Marietta to give him a chance?