Behind the glamorous facade of Kentucky''s most famous family lurks a secret - one that threatens its very foundation . . .

In Charlemont, Kentucky, the Bradford family is the crème de la crème of high society - just like their exclusive brand of bourbon. And their complicated lives and vast estate are run by a discrete staff who inevitably become embroiled in their affairs. This is especially true now, when the apparent suicide of the family patriarch is starting to look more and more like murder.

No one is above suspicion - especially the eldest Bradford son, Edward. The bad blood between him and his father is known far and wide, and he is aware that he could be named a suspect. As the investigation into the death intensifies, he keeps himself busy at the bottom of a bottle - as well as with his former horse trainer''s daughter. Meanwhile, the family''s financial future lies in the perfectly manicured hands of a business rival, a woman who wants Edward all to herself.

Everything has consequences; everybody has secrets. And few can be trusted. Then, at the very brink of the family''s demise, someone thought lost to them forever returns to the fold. Maxwell Bradford has come home. But is he a saviour . . . or the worst of all the sinners?

''Get ready for summer''s most sinful indulgence. The drama never stops in this tale of family secrets, lost love found, rivalries, delightfully nasty villains, and deliciously appealing heroes. Put on your derby hat and join in the fun.'' New York Times bestselling author Susan Wiggs

''Breathless fun! J. R. Ward moves her trademark dark and sexy from the world of warrior vampires to the halls of the Kentucky elite, where the family members claws are just as sharp and the consequences just as deadly. I couldn''t stop turning the pages!'' New York Times bestselling author Lisa Gardner

''Dallas'' meets ''Downton Abbey''... This is high drama, and it''s mesmerizing.'' Fresh Fiction

''I want my "Bourbon" in bed! J. R. Ward delivers a sweeping saga where family roots run deep and passion sizzles hotter than a Kentucky summer. Potent and heady, one taste just isn''t enough. New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter

''The drama and dark secrets behind the Bradford family''s empire propel this irresistible story of high-society scandal . . . a read that''s rich, smooth, and satisfying as a glass of Kentucky bourbon.'' New York Times bestselling author Susan Elizabeth Phillips

''Soapy elements abound in this Dynasty-esque tale, from lavish wealth to feuds, dirty secrets, and forbidden love Ward is a master of pacing and world building, and readers will love that the cliff-hanger ending guarantees at least a second helping of the Bradfords.'' Booklist (starred review)