When rivals Violet Whittemore and Cyril Burke are forced to share leadership of Locke Hill College, their fierce competition turns to unexpected affection—and a lesson in love.

Violet Whittemore has spent her life proving she’s every bit as capable as the men who doubt her. Opening Locke Hill College for Exceptional Young Women is her greatest triumph—a school where girls can learn, grow, and become extraordinary. But when her father appoints her childhood nemesis, Cyril Burke, as headmaster, Violet vows to fight for what she’s built.

In a daring move, she proposes a challenge: for one season, she and Cyril will share the position. At the end of the term, the one who proves most successful will assume the role permanently.

The two had always been rivals, sparring over books, facts, and games of marbles. But with Locke Hill’s future on the line, their old competition burns brighter than ever. And though Violet tells herself she can’t stand Cyril Burke, she can’t seem to look away from the man he’s become—handsome, confident, and far too compelling for her peace of mind.

With the future of the school hanging in the balance, one season will decide who deserves to lead. But the closer they work together, the clearer it becomes that the only thing worth winning is each other’s heart.