Princess Aeryn of the Unified Crown has been sold for peace. A political pawn and reluctant bride, she is sent to marry the heir of her kingdom's greatest enemy: the orcs. Expecting a brute, she is unprepared for Khaeric, a clanlord who is more honorable than the human courtiers she left behind, and whose patient strength challenges her every prejudice.

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At his mountain stronghold, Aeryn discovers orcish culture built on ritual, honor, and survival. An ancient curse, however, looms over these people, and Khaeric's greatest burden is leading them through the fight for their very existence. As the line between duty and desire blurs, Aeryn must choose: the kingdom that traded her, or the monster who sees her as more than a prize.