First published 2026
Lady Edith Darling abandons her quiet manor life to fulfill her grandmother's final wish: finding King Arthur's legendary sword Excalibur. She packs Arthurian legends, pastries, and her grandmother's ashes before seeking a mercenary guide. Thomasin Shaw commands London's most dangerous criminal gang. A scandal involving the chief inspector's wife destroyed her police protection, leaving her facing enormous financial demands to save her empire. When wealthy Lady Edith arrives requesting an escort for treasure hunting, Thomasin sees an opportunity for kidnapping and ransom. Their quest leads them through booby-trapped underground chambers filled with arrow traps, doors secured by mysterious puzzles, and eventually to Arthur's legendary round table. Thomasin becomes genuinely invested in both the search and Edith herself. Edith finds herself attracted to Thomasin despite her criminal reputation. The chief inspector continues pressuring Thomasin about her past crimes while Edith's father works to bring his daughter home. Their legendary adventure approaches its conclusion, but discovering Excalibur may not guarantee the happy ending both women desire.
Genres: romance, adventure, mystery, fantasy, adult, historical-fantasy
Vibes: adventurous, dark, emotional, romantic, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, forced-proximity, opposites-attract, slow-burn
Setting: London, Manor, Underground Chambers
Period: Contemporary
320 pages · Paperback · Alcove Press
Content warnings: kidnapping, violence