Even to a girl from the slums of Bristol, the streets of Glasgow seemed gray and inhospitable, the wealth and splendor of its mansions cold and heartless. But for Hester Dark, there could be no turning back; she would make this cruel city the home of her dreams. Everyone said that Hester was lucky. Lucky to have a wealthy uncle in Scotland who was willing to take her in. Lucky to have ali the advantages that his money could buy. But Hester's new world held dark secrets, jealousies, and fears. And no one had spoken of the women who would despise her for her beauty and her independence -- and the men who would buy her soul and call it love.