First published 2014
Hugh the Relentless arrives at Lingwood Manor like a storm, seeking a dazzling green crystal. Everyone cowers except Lady Alice, the sharp-tongued redhead who sees opportunity in the dark knight's arrival. The crystal has vanished from her possession, but Alice proposes a bargain. She will use her detection skills to help Hugh recover the stolen stone. In exchange, he must provide a dowry to free her and her brother from their controlling uncle. Hugh accepts her terms but adds his own condition: Alice must agree to a temporary betrothal. Their arrangement draws Alice into Hugh's stone fortress and plunges them both into a dangerous quest filled with treachery. As they work together to find the mysterious crystal, Alice and Hugh face enemies who threaten their lives. Their partnership of convenience becomes something deeper as they discover their only chance at true love.
Genres: romance, historical-fiction, adventure, mystery
Vibes: atmospheric, intimate, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, forced-proximity
Setting: Lingwood Manor
Period: Medieval
ebook · Bantam