Curse of Shadows and Thorns

Elise is the niece of the current fae king, whose family long ago took the crown from the fae's rightful ruler. Expected to serve her family's hold on the throne, she prefers slipping into gambling halls over royal duties. When her uncle forces her into marriage negotiations—threatening her ill father if she refuses—she is placed under the charge of Legion Grey, a mysterious dowry negotiator who stirs both her anger and a forbidden attraction. A coup drives Elise and Legion into flight, revealing that he carries dangerous secrets and an ancient curse, and raising questions about who truly deserves the throne. Elise is ultimately faced with a difficult choice tied to Legion's fate and the restoration of magic to the land.