2006 "First Edition" stated on copyright page; Crown Publishers, New York; hardbound with ebony boards and large gilt lettering on spine; very good condition except for one small minor stain on bottom of inside front cover (not very noticeable); decorative dust jacket very good.
 
Plot -
Alice Verney is a young woman intent on achieving her dreams.  Having left Restoration England in the midst of a messy scandal, she has been living in Louis XIV's Baroque, mannered France for two years.  Now she is returning home to England and anxious to re-establish herself quickly.  First, she will regain her former position as a maid of honor to Charles II's queen.  Then she will marry the most celebrated duke of the Restoration, putting herself in a position to attain power she's only dreamed of.  As a duchess, Alice will be able to make or break her friends and enemies at will.
 
But all is not as it seems in the rowdy, merry court of Charles II...