In 1803, the fragile Peace of Amiens breaks down, and Anne Peters finds herself stranded in Paris, penniless and alone, in danger of arrest.
In the flamboyant and demanding circle of the count, his family and friends, moving between the glittering city of St Petersburg, ancient Moscow and the wild, untamed beauty of the Cauca.
One chance of escape is offered, to flee under the protection of the dashing Count Nikolai Kirov, and make a new life in Russia as governess to his children.
In 1803, the fragile Peace of Amiens breaks down, and Anne Peters finds herself stranded in Paris, penniless and alone, in danger of arrest