"Lowborn David Lauriston lacks the family connections needed to rise in Edinburgh's privileged legal world. Worse, his latest case--defending weavers accused of treason--has brought him under suspicion of harbouring radical sympathies. Troubled by his sexuality, tormented by memories of a man he once platonically loved, David lives a largely celibate life--until a rare sexual encounter with a compelling stranger turns his world on its head. Cynical and worldly, Lord Murdo Balfour is more at home in hedonistic London than dingy, repressed Edinburgh. Unlike David, he intends to eventually marry while continuing to enjoy the company of men whenever he pleases. Yet sex with David is different. It's personal, intimate, and instead of extinguishing his desire, it only leaves him hungry for more. As David's search for the man who betrayed the weavers deepens, he begins to suspect that his mysterious lover has more sinister reasons for his presence in Edinburgh. The truth could leave his heart broken and more necks stretching on the gallows"--Page 4 of cover.