Rogues' Covenant — Sylvia Thorpe

Joanna had never before known anyone like Philip Rigby. The handsome stranger from Barbados charmed the entire neighborhood, including the lovely heiress to the Selbourne fortune.

It did occur to Joanna that she knew very little about him. But she didn't care. It was enough that he loved her. And she loved him.

When Philip asked her to marry him, she quickly agreed. And even though he insisted that their engagement be kept a secret--for the time being--Joanna (lid not argue. She was willing to go along with Philip's every wish.

She never suspected that she would be suddenly thrust into the middle of a breath-taking adventure....
---------------
UK CORGI Edition

Joanna Selbourne's first encounter with Philip Digby ended in a clash of wills between the headstrong heiress and the masterful stranger from Barbados. But later meetings were more agreeable... and while neighbourhood belles eagerly awaited the arrival of Philip's friend, the new Earl of Varne, Joanna and Philip fell deeply in love...

Yet why did he insist on a secret betrothal? Had not her father vowed she might marry whom she chose? - though Sir Andrew detested deceit and fortune-hunters! But mystery surrounded Philip - and the key to the mystery was the absent Earl. Suddenly Joanna was part of a dangerous adventure that demanded all her trust in Philip's love...