Annabel Essex has her future all mapped out: marry a wealthy, proper English gentleman and finally escape a life of financial struggle. So naturally, fate has other plans when a scandal forces her into a carriage bound for Scotland with the last man she'd ever choose—a gorgeous but broke Scottish earl with nothing but charm and wit in his pocket. Stranded together with everyone assuming they're already married, Annabel finds herself playing a dangerously flirty game of words with the very man who shouldn't tempt her, where each wager leads to another kiss. As pretense starts to blur with reality, she'll have to decide whether her carefully constructed list of requirements matters more than the unexpected connection sparking between them.

Reading soundtrack

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yearningwittysensualdefiantintoxicating

Witty banter and stolen glances set to lush strings and indie folk. Think sweeping romance with playful tension—velvet vocals, jazzy undertones, and that delicious slow-burn heat. British and Scottish influences welcome.

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