The Duke and Duchess, with their infant son, are living in a pretty villa on the outskirts of the royal township of Versailles, preparing for Antonia's court presentation. With them is Lord Vallentine—kicked out of home by his pregnant wife—and Martin Ellicott, who receives news from the Duke that changes his life forever. And while a year has passed since Roxton rescued Antonia from the clutches of his evil cousin the Comte de Salvan, Salvan continues his insidious interference in their lives from his place of exile, and with the collusion of the Salvan ancient aunts. But Roxton is determined that nothing and no one will ruin the happiness of His Duchess, or their life together.

Domestic harmony is once again disrupted at the villa, this time by one of the Duke’s ex-lovers—the Comtesse Duras-Valfons claiming Roxton is the father of her infant son, claims supported by the Salvan ancient aunts. Intent on causing mischief for Her Duke, they also hope to embarrass the Duchess by dragging her into the scandal. Every French noble may be aware of the Comtesse’s shocking claim as to the paternity of her infant son, everyone that is except the Duchess. When she learns the truth, Antonia deals with the family drama in her own inimitable style.