Some call Christina Thornton spoilt, others simply call her beautiful. But one thing's for certain: she's a young woman firmly in charge of her own destiny…or so she thinks!

When the dark-hearted Count Marchesi rides into town, it is to claim Miss Thornton as his bride. Christina's stubborn protests are of no use, for her future is in the hands of this brooding Italian. But how long can willful Christina resist her passionate husband when her heart is urging her to give in?