Banner Clairmont hated the idea of her beloved Lyonsgate Plantation being sold, even to dashing Rory Stewart, who seemed to know so much about her. But as they toured the grounds before that evening's costume ball, she sensed the house welcoming the intruder, sharing its secrets. Rory was fascinated by the estate, and even more by his lovely guide. But who, he wondered aloud, were the early guests—the soldiers in rebel uniform, the ladies in crinolines—and why was Banner so shocked when he pointed them out?

Kay Hooper, who has more than six million copies of her books in print worldwide, has won numerous awards and high praise for her novels. Kay lives in North Carolina, where she is currently working on her next novel.