To win a wager, the Earl of Ashby, known as "Lucky Ned," trades places with John Turner, his friend and secretary, and finds his luck suddenly abandoning him until he meets governess Phoebe Baker, a prim-and-proper beauty who seemingly wants nothing to do with him.

Miss Drewsmina Trelayne seeks the assistance of Ian Clayback, the Duke of Lachlan, to open a finishing school, starting with his nieces as private clients. Affording Drew's services isn't a problem for Lachlan, but his growing desire for her is. When they're caught in a scandalous embrace, nothing short of marriage will save all of them from further scandal. Can a marriage made in haste be love's saving grace?