In this passionate saga set in present-day Australia, the passing of a wealthy patriarch leaves one young woman with a chance to change her life-if it doesn't bring her world crashing down first…
After losing her parents in a tragic accident, young Charlotte was taken in by her grandfather, Sir Reginald Mansfield. Despite his tyrannical tendencies, he cherished her above all-a fact made clear by his surprising bequest. In her early twenties, she intends to follow in his illustrious footsteps in the field of law. And now she is the beneficiary not only of his vast financial assets, but of Clouds-the stunning sandstone house in New South Wales with a breathtaking view of the Blue Mountains and a bountiful garden of fragrant flowers. Unfortunately, not everyone is pleased for her.
Charlotte's grasping aunt and uncle, as well as her controlling, entitled cousin cannot hide their fury. As rivalries simmer and naked greed roils the socially prominent clan, only Brendon Macmillan, Charlotte's longtime friend, seems genuinely happy for her-despite the bitter, scandalous history between their families. Charlotte's dream is to use the funds to open a shelter for abused women, and Brendon intends to support and protect her. But often, more money means more betrayals, secrets, and lies-and as Charlotte tries to determine who she can trust, she may be a woman in danger herself…
