First published 2010
Prince Henry is a deepsman, born of human and mer blood, who must survive the treacherous waters of royal succession. In this alternate England, the deepsmen rule from beneath the waves while their human subjects dwell on land. Henry faces constant threats from his half-brothers who would gladly see him dead to secure their own claims to the throne. When political machinations force him into an arranged marriage with a human noble, Henry must bridge two worlds that barely understand each other. The court seethes with ancient grudges and fresh betrayals as deepsman and human advisors scheme for power. Henry discovers that ruling requires more than royal blood. He must learn to read the dangerous currents of politics while staying true to his own nature. The fate of both kingdoms rests on whether this reluctant prince can forge unity between the depths and the surface world.
Genres: historical-fiction, fantasy, political-thriller, alternate-history
Vibes: emotional, fast-paced, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, fish-out-of-water, reluctant-hero
Setting: England
Period: Alternate History
416 pages · Paperback · Vintage Books USA