First published 2024
Caroline has lost everything. Her mother is dead, her father has remarried, and now she must live under her grandfather's strict control. The old man rules his household with an iron fist, but Caroline refuses to become another victim. She has survived too much already to surrender now. Caroline begins plotting to win her grandfather's favor and secure her place in the family. Her uncle has the same idea. The two enter a fierce competition, each trying to become the old man's chosen heir. Caroline uses every skill she has learned from years of hardship. She studies her grandfather's moods, anticipates his needs, and slowly gains ground against her uncle. The stakes grow higher as the rivalry intensifies. Caroline knows this battle will determine whether she gains the independence she craves or remains trapped forever. She will do anything to build the life she dreams of, even if it means destroying her uncle's chances in the process.
Genres: romance, literary-fiction, historical-fiction, family-drama
Vibes: emotional, intimate, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Grandfather's Household
Period: 20th-Century
284 pages · Kindle Edition · Gallery Books
Content warnings: abuse, emotional-abuse