In the summer of 1886, the famous explorer, Henry Morton Stanley, receives a response to his proposal of marriage from the attractive English artist and social butterfly, Dolly Tennant. Her answer is 'no'. This intriguing historical novel, based on true events, begins in June, 1885, at a dinner party in the Tennant's London home where H.M.Stanley and William Gladstone are amongst the guests. Dolly, widely recognised for her beauty and her artistic accomplishments, as well as her successful parties, is trying to get over a brief affair with Andrew Carnegie. Seeking a potential suitor, she is intrigued by the enigmatic Stanley and wants to get to know him better. Stanley is tempted by Dolly, but he also wants to return to his beloved Africa. As their friendship develops, Stanley hopes that Dolly will marry him, but she has higher aspirations. Craving recognition for her artwork and in search of stimulating company, Dolly is never short of admirers, but she is ambitious and the men she wants are not always available.Stung by her refusal to marry him, Stanley finds an opportunity to return to Africa and, from the time that he sets sail, their lives run vastly different courses. While Dolly mixes with the elite in glittering London society, Stanley faces mortal peril in his quest to rescue the Emin Pasha. He leads a vast expedition through the dangerous uncharted jungles and mountains of Central Africa, suffering punishing injuries and sickness and the brutalities of starvation, often facing death. When Stanley returns to England three years later, he is a hero and highly eligible. Meanwhile, although Dolly's hectic social life has brought her some happiness, she now seeks a husband.