Gabrielle Carelton is one of Queen Elizabeth's most devoted ladies-in-waiting. But her loyalty is put to the test when Her Majesty commands her to marry Scotsman Collin Douglas. Then, on the eye of her wedding. Gabrielle is kidnapped by Collin's twin brother... and not even Good Queen Bess can save her. Dubbed the Black Douglas, devilishly handsome Connor is known throughout the land for his magnificent feats of strength and cunning. But now he is in need of an heir. An English bride will bring peace to the warring nations - and give him the son he wants. What he doesn't expect is a woman as passionate as she is proud... and a desire that knows no boundaries.... Set against the pageantry and savage splendor of 16th century England and Scotland, here is the story of a man and a woman who begin as enemies and strangers - and find a love that will triumph against all odds.