Blake Stephens is promised to one woman, but discovers his soul stirred by another. Lady Aileen Davidson's reputation was ruined ages ago, which is why she's buried herself in the country, but her fiery spirit and bold beauty threaten to bring Blake to his knees, making him wonder if he has proposed to the wrong lass!
Severity reflects intensity, not value — “central theme” means a warning is a core part of the book, not that the book is bad.