Lewis Cotter, the Earl of Pruett, has just inherited his title, and his first order of business is to find a wife. He never thought he would need to get married, but after the death of his older brother, it's up to him to secure the estate.
While he has to marry for money, he doesn't want to marry just anyone. He wants a love match. But he doesn't even know where to begin in finding the perfect bride. And worse, he has a terrible time being romantic. He doesn't know the first thing about being a suitor.
His friend offers the perfect solution to his problem. He'll host a masquerade ball and invite all of the available wealthy ladies in London to attend. Then, Lewis can meet them, and the masks will help Lewis overcome his shyness.
Miss Marcy Shoemark hadn't originally planned to go to the ball. She's a lady's maid. She has no money to offer a prospective husband. But when she finds out the purpose of the masquerade ball is for Lewis to find a wife, she decides to attend it. She's been secretly in love with him, and this is the one chance she has to get him to know her as a lady, not as a servant who's out of his reach.
Her plan works. She manages to get his attention. But sooner or later, the masquerade has to end, and she has to reveal the fact that she's only a servant. Will he still want to marry her once he discovers the truth? Or will he choose a wealthy lady who can secure his estate?