Love was never supposed to be part of the deal...Lady Amelie de Clerq's prickly demeanor and earth mage abilities earned her the nickname "Lady of Thorns," keeping potential suitors at bay and making her the butt of the nobility's jokes. Determined to attract a husband who will love her for herself rather than her fortune, she embarks on a journey of sensual self-discovery.Alain LaPorte, wily lawyer and toast of the Ypresian social set, has been summoned to Lierdhe to oversee business negotiations with a neighboring earl. When Amelie asks Alain to tutor her in the bedroom arts as well, he agrees to introduce the virgin mage to pleasure. But lessons in lovemaking soon turn emotional, forcing both Amelie and Alain to confront their fears about intimacy, loyalty, and love.