Will Ives, the bastard of the late marquess, is as strong, handsome, and smart as his titled brothers, but he has no interest in society or book learning. His unique gift for training highly-prized rescue dogs is all he needs. His peace is shattered the day the beautiful but eccentric Lady Aurelia demands his help in finding a child no one knows is missing. The daughter of a duke, Lady Aurelia has everything: wealth, beauty, and a family known for their good works. Unfortunately afflicted with hyper-acute hearing, she spends most of her time cringing in her room. She wants to please her father and make a good match, but how can she when every dinner, tea, and ball is pure torture? When a child only she can hear cries for help, Aurelia must find a way to turn her affliction into the gift it is, before it's too late. Will, in turn, must overcome his reluctance to work with a lady who makes him feel inadequate in all ways but one. With the reluctant aid of Will and his dogs, the pair sets out on an unusual journey that will surely lead to heartbreak—or a love against all reason.