A noblewoman preparing for a political marriage keeps fainting in terror whenever she meets her intimidating fiancé—but he mistakes her fear for affection. Determined to call off the engagement, she must navigate his unexpected romanticism and family secrets.

Grace Oelin, plagued by a fear of sharp objects, faints whenever she meets Lucas Black, the kingdom’s most feared, sword-wielding duke. But beneath his cold exterior lies a hopeless romantic. Determined to break off their arranged marriage, Grace is horrified to learn Lucas has mistaken her fear for love. As he dreams of a sweet newlywed life, Grace plots her escape. Can she see past his fearsome image and discover who he truly is, or will the secrets of the infamous House Black pull her under?