In order to save his family from ruin, Nicholas Saville, Viscount Redfern, secretly pledges his sword to King George's spymaster, Sir Alaric. Espionage suits him well, except that his duties take him far away from England and his betrothed. Heartbroken by her beloved's long and unexplained absences, Helen Barrett breaks off their engagement. Soon she is courted by a powerful earl, a man well versed in both magic and treason. He inspires Helen's utmost distrust until he gives her a stunning sapphire necklace—a gift that traps her under his dark spell. Redfern's mission is to stop the murderous Hellfire League, but he will risk that and more to save—and win back—the woman he adores.