by K. X. Song
First published 2024
Meilin faces an impossible choice when her opium-addicted father plans to sell her to another violent man. She takes control of her fate by disguising herself as a boy and joining the imperial army in his place. The Three Kingdoms stand on the brink of war, and Meilin throws herself into military training with fierce determination. She earns respect from her fellow soldiers and grows close to Sky, a prince who becomes both training partner and something more. But escape from one trap may have led her into another. Visions of a sea dragon spirit plague her dreams, promising real power and freedom at a terrible cost. As the kingdoms hurtle toward destruction, Meilin must choose between Sky, who wins her heart and loyalty, the manipulative sea dragon with hidden motives, or an enemy prince who forces her to question everything she believes about her homeland and herself.
Genres: romance, historical-fiction, adventure, fantasy, action
Vibes: dark, emotional, fast-paced, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family, military-romance
Setting: Three Kingdoms
Period: ancient
432 pages · Hardcover · Ace
Content warnings: addiction, violence