Lady Sophie Baxter must wed a wealthy lord by the end of the Season, or risk the ruin of her family. However, her father does not have just any lord in mind. He’s set his sights on Simon Fitzwilliam, Marquis of Ashton—a man known amongst the ton for being as cold and aloof as he is rich and powerful. While his frigid gaze and reserved demeanor prove intimidating, Sophie cannot help but wonder if there isn’t more to the marquis than meets the eye. Curiosity leads her to accept the marquis’ suit, and before long she learns that Simon’s secrets are far darker than she could have ever imagined. Darkest of all being the hidden chamber behind a locked door, filled with ropes, restraints, and implements of torture . . . a chamber her husband has specified she is never to enter. Yet, Sophie soon discovers that what appear to be instruments of torment are capable of unlocking the most exquisite pleasure. Convincing him to teach her the ways of submitting to his dominance will be easy. Uncovering the secrets of his heart and soul will be one of the hardest things Sophie has ever done.