On a dark and perilous road in a vast, magnificent land Colonel Tyrone Rycroft saves the life of a countess of royal blood. But the beautiful, highborn Synnovea repays his courage with deceit - ensnaring the dashing soldier-of-fortune in an escapable web of irresistible seduction.
In a realm of breathtaking opulence - in a splendid imperial court rife with danger - the handsome British adventurer falls unwitting but willing prey to Synnovea's amorous intrigues. But the schemes of a regal temptress are betrayed by her own impassioned yearnings - and a heart consumed by a raging fire she has ignited . . . but is powerless to control.