First published 1987
Queen Gloriana commands the fantastical realm of Albion, where magic and political scheming intertwine at every turn. Despite her royal power, she remains tormented by an unfulfilled sexual desire that no lover has satisfied. The kingdom buzzes with romantic entanglements and deadly conspiracies while sorcerers summon creatures from other worlds. Into this charged atmosphere steps Captain Quire, a lethal swordsman whose reputation as both seducer and assassin precedes him. Court gallants deploy ancient strategies of manipulation as the very survival of Albion becomes tied to Quire's abilities in seduction. Gloriana finds herself trapped within her maze-like palace, consumed by longing as political machinations swirl around her throne. The entire kingdom holds its breath, waiting to see whether this dangerous captain can accomplish what no other man has managed. At its heart, this is the story of a powerful woman's search for personal fulfillment in a world where desire and statecraft collide.
Genres: romance, historical-fiction, fantasy, political-thriller
Vibes: atmospheric, dark, emotional, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, forbidden-romance, powerful-woman
Setting: Albion
Period: historical
311 pages · Paperback · Avon Books
Content warnings: sexual-content