Soriana can’t escape the man who first taught her to love, and though Ranneth keeps his distance, she still can’t deny the passion forbidden to them both. King Trenor is a doting husband, but what she needs is a man who understands her worth and the threats of war hedging in from the west. A visit from a foreign delegate and a journey to secure an alliance with their neighbours up north has Soriana striving to prove herself, but being the key to peace between the two nations may ask more of her than she’s willing to give. And as she continues to fight the passion she still can’t deny, she realizes that sometimes even the hidden battles leave scars.
Genre: FICTION / Romance / FantasyThe series is loved by readers with strong reviews.
My palms itch with a cold clamminess and I struggle to breathe normally. In, out, in, out. It’s a chant, my mantra. Ranneth stands behind me, the heat of his gaze scorching my back through the thin gauze of my dress, but that heat, felt at a distance and borne from something other than our joined happiness, isn’t nearly enough. I want to turn to him, but I can’t look back. Someone would notice. Everyone is watching me now.
I left him. I didn’t run. I came close, so close I could see the heartbreak draw the hope from his face when I told him I was going to marry King Trenor after all. He said nothing. But I shouldn’t expect more now that I’ve given him up, now that he’s not mine, like he never was to begin with.
It’s important I appear calm now, a smile in place, my eyes level to greet the endless tide of approaching guests, but inside panic claws to find release. I’m an animal chained. I did this to myself. That might be worse, having no one else to blame, but it’s done now and there’s no going back. Taking my place as queen like this is for my people, the people of Oran. I’m giving them hope as I’m taking mine away. It’s what I must keep telling myself as I’m careful to maintain the outward appearance of a happy bride, a new queen.
I focus on my breathing. In, out, in, out.
The wedding itself was a blur, a dark cloud that followed my words to Ranneth after opening the door to him. I made the decision not to run from this role of power I’ve now assumed, even knowing it would certainly ruin me, but though I regret it already, it had to be done. It’s for the best. I’m keeping him safe. I will keep my people safe.
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Italian
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Already translated.
Translated by Cristina Borgomeo and Tina Cuccaro
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Portuguese
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Already translated.
Translated by Tarsia Cruz
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Spanish
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Already translated.
Translated by mariana martinez
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