First published 2010
Garron of Kersey returns from serving the king to claim his position as Baron Wareham. He discovers Wareham Castle nearly in ruins, devastated by someone called the Black Demon. The few surviving servants tell him this mysterious figure searched for gold that belonged to Garron's brother Arthur. Among the remaining staff is Merry, officially the bastard daughter of the castle priest. Garron notices she possesses unusual skills for a servant. She reads, writes, and organizes information much like he does. Working together, they restore Wareham Castle to its previous glory. Yet questions multiply as they rebuild. Arthur may have hidden a treasure somewhere. The Black Demon's identity remains unknown. Most puzzling of all, Merry herself harbors secrets about who she really is. Garron must uncover the truth behind the attack on his home while navigating his growing connection to the mysterious woman helping him reclaim his inheritance.
Genres: romance, historical-fiction, adventure, mystery
Vibes: atmospheric, emotional, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Wareham Castle, Kersey
Period: medieval
368 pages · Hardcover · G.P. Putnam's Sons