Not only were virtually all the characters introduced in the earlier book but the plot seems to pick up where the earlier left off. The motivating circumstances that drive the characters were established in the earlier book, and with only a sketchy review of various episodes and the historical background from Lady , the characters of Bride seem to be making much ado over nothing. Set in 1828, the story begins when Dudley, the Viscount of Monksleigh cries off his engagement to Cassandra St. John in a public teashop. Ramsay witnesses the incident and follows Cassandra. He rescues her from an attack by footpads and identifies himself as Lord Ravencliff.
Cassie is intrigued by the sophisticated aristocrat.
She was certain that behind that stern facade there was so much to be discovered humor, generosity, even passion. How different a man's passion must be from that of a youth like Dudley. Ramsay is bothered by accusations of dishonesty and rationalizes that he is not lying to Cassandra because he is the Baron of Ravencliff among his many titles. Ramsay begins to regret his scheme involving Cassandra, but it is too late he is committed to his course. Meanwhile, Cassandra's parents are concerned about her reaction to the broken betrothal as well as any possible plots by the ruthless Marquis of Linirk.