First published 9999
Martha Allen tends to her cousin's household in the brutal Massachusetts wilderness, commanding respect through her strong will and sharp tongue. Thomas Carrier works for the same family, a man whose enormous frame and quiet strength mask secrets from his past in England. When Martha and Thomas begin their courtship, both recognize kindred spirits who refuse to bend to others' expectations. Thomas gradually shares his story with Martha, revealing his role as executioner during the English Civil War and his part in the death of King Charles I. Their newfound happiness faces constant threats in this unforgiving new world. London assassins hunt Thomas, determined to kill the man who ended their king's life. Meanwhile, predators of every kind stalk the colonial settlements, from literal wolves prowling the forests to human wolves seeking blood and revenge. Martha and Thomas must navigate these dangers while building a life together, their love tested by the violence that follows them into their supposed refuge.
Genres: romance, historical, historical-fiction, thriller
Vibes: atmospheric, intimate, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Massachusetts, England
Period: 17th century
420 pages · Mass Market Paperback · Little, Brown and Company
Content warnings: violence