He was supposed to marry her best friend, but he couldn't say no to her.No one has ever refused a request from Lady Belle Dryden. Her pretty face and winsome nature almost guarantee it, and the fact that she's the youngest daughter of the Duke of Wey doesn't hurt. So she's certain when she plays matchmaker between her dearest friend, Miss Petunia Bateman, and the charming, mysterious Owen Canady, both will be only too happy to fall in love. After all, Belle feels herself falling for Owen already. A shame a duke's daughter must marry someone more impressive.Owen Canady is a gentleman by birth, a pauper by circumstance, and a con man by necessity. Life has taught him he can rely only on his wits and a fast horse to get by. But when he is blackmailed into ferreting out the secrets of the Duke of Wey at a house party at the duke's lavish estate, he finds his resolve crumbling. Belle is everything that is right and good in the world. He cannot betray her.As her father's enemies grow more daring, Belle and Owen must work together to protect all they hold dear. When his own secrets are revealed, can Owen convince the lady who's never heard no to say yes to him?If you like warm, witty historical romances, with a touch of intrigue, then you'll love this historical romance by an award-winning author.