While trying to juggle a job in London with taking care of her alcoholic mother, Catrin Thomas finds herself engaging in a steamy affair with Murat, the sultan of a desert country. Though she doesn't enjoy being labeled his mistress, she's willing to accept it if it means she can be with the man she loves—even if their time together may be short-lived. Catrin's love for Murat grows stronger, making her temporary position as his mistress all the more difficult...especially when she hears of his upcoming wedding plans with another woman. Not being able to bear such heartbreak, Catrin decides to leave him without notice. Murat is accustomed to getting whatever he wants, but now he's finding out that there is someone who dares to defy him...which he finds quite tantalizing. Will he cleave to his country's old customs and proceed with his plans to marry another woman or will he do what it takes to win Catrin back?