The cosmos is within us. We are made of star-stuff. We are a way for the universe to know itself - Carl Sagan ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Medical roboticist Lyra Brown is the newest addition to the Australian Interplanetary Exploration, Colonisation and Research (AIECR) vessel Andromeda. Inexperienced, enthusiastic and proud, Lyra is only the first of many to trod on the toes of one of Andromeda's astronautical explorers (in training, that is): Xavier Prescott. There is no time for petty, bitter rivalries however when there's a job to be done aboard the Andromeda and the two must come to civil terms lest it burn all bridges between them. The strongest of friendships may be welded from the forges of rivalry but can Lyra and Xavier withstand the heat of difference, if not the ever growing embers of attraction? Let's not even mention tightly sealed personal project Lyra stores under her mattress.

For over 200 years, the kingdom of Welldyn has prospered on predictability. The same tasks are expected of every caste, and outsiders are rarely welcomed. But when the mysterious death of the palace's physician brings a strange girl to the royal household, that predictability begins to crumble. In an unlikely happening of events, a young, naive prince and the stranger form a unique bond. They soon discover that there are dark things happening beneath the surface of Welldyn--- things can only they can stop. No one in the palace can be trusted, not even family. Through the twists and turns of palace life, the two will embark on a journey of self-discovery and learn the true nature of the kingdom. လ Note: Sovereign is a fantasy novel, so it does include some magic; however it is minor and mostly small incantations. It should be noted that magic is NOT a large part of the book. There is a lot of mystery and romance as well, which I would say are more central themes. This story is still in progress, but I wanted to give it a test run, perhaps get a little feedback. Any acknowledgement is highly appreciated :) I hope you enjoy.