by C. L. Polk
First published 2020
Beatrice Clayborn practices magic in secret while her family prepares her for Bargaining Season. The Clayborns face financial ruin, and only an advantageous marriage can save them from creditors. Beatrice discovers a grimoire that holds the secret to becoming a full Magus, but a rival sorceress steals it from her grasp. She summons a spirit to retrieve the book, yet this supernatural ally demands payment: her first kiss with Ianthe Lavan, the thief's brother. Ianthe possesses wealth, kindness, and the rare ability to see Beatrice for who she truly is. As Beatrice grows closer to the Lavan family, her choice becomes impossible. The spell to achieve her magical dreams will destroy her family's future and cost her the one man who understands her. Marriage, even to someone she loves, means surrendering her powers forever through the marital collar that protects unborn children. She cannot have both paths, and either choice will leave her mourning what might have been.
Genres: romance, historical-fiction, fantasy, magic
Vibes: intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Clayborn Family
375 pages · Hardcover · Erewhon