Aspiring artist Delaney Harper sails to New Orleans after her mother's death. On the night of her arrival, she's welcomed by a masked stranger who steals one breathless kiss. Alderic Beaumont is a fallen aristocrat. Once a corsair and now a smuggler, he's a force to be reckoned with. On the night of his friend's celebration, he's captured by an irresistible beauty. He kisses her, promising to find her come morning. By then, Delaney's world has crumbled-the truth about her mother reveals Delaney now owns a brothel. With Alderic, Delaney embarks on a path of intrigue and passion. Her wit and artistic skills help conceal her identity and restore the once-prestigious bordello...but her deceptions could cost her Alderic's heart.