In this historical novel from the New York Times-bestselling author, a young woman earns the attention--and obsession--of a Church of England clergyman.

1963. Seeking meaning and purpose in her life in an era when traditional values are under attack, Venetia Flaxton arrives in Starbridge to stay with her best friend, whose father, Neville Aysgarth, is the renowned dean of the cathedral.

For years, Venetia has seen Aysgarth only as a family friend, but now she realizes he is the only person who understands her--and in a single electrifying second, she falls in love. But Aysgarth, a senior cleric with a very possessive wife, is clearly not available for marriage, even as Venetia learns her love is reciprocated. A white-hot but baffling relationship, still far from what she wants, then explodes into being.

For Aysgarth proves to be a convoluted mystery which Venetia has no idea how to unravel, and soon she sees that he is taking scandalous risks with his distinguished ecclesiastical career . . .

"Wonderful." --The Plain Dealer

"Rich in human interest, sex, scandal, moral crises and a great deal of humor, it is a book to keep you hooked throughout." --The Sunday Times