Shou, a once-wise and astute strategist, embarked on a perilous journey from a war-torn past to the intricate world of court politics. His tactical brilliance concealed a master plan: to ascend the court ranks and, in the shadows, orchestrate the king's downfall. As he navigated the treacherous waters of the court, his every move revealed the cunning of a true mastermind. but an old enemy, a traitor from his past, lurks in the shadows, determined to sabotage him.
Themes of wisdom, calculated ambition, and the complex dance of loyalty and betrayal weave through this tale of a hidden mastermind. Shou's story is a relentless game of intrigue, where he emerges as the ultimate puppeteer, manipulating the court's power struggles to his advantage. It's a battle of wits and ruthless determination, as Shou's quest for power unveils the darkest depths of courtly politics, treacherous alliances, and the unrelenting vendetta of his traitor enemy.
Just when she's decided to leave the Town, Lady Cressida Belverst is forced to marry Lord Calan Haverston, the man who coincidentally knows a way out. Agreeing to marry for all the wrong reasons, can Cressida and Calan find out where their hearts truly belong?
***
It is impossible to leave the Town, but one woman is determined to escape with the help of her betrothed.
Lady Cressida Belverst has always been judged as a walking scandal. Oh, how she tries (on some rare occasions) to be proper! When her parents arrange for her to marry a rich lord, Cressida has had enough. She has to leave the Town because she will not be forced to live with a man she doesn't love. But what happens if the very man she's betrothed to is the only one who can help her get out?
Calan Haverston, the Lord of Easton, takes the risk and helps his betrothed by using his knowledge of the Town's secrets because he is as willing as she to stay free of marriage for reasons completely different. He has dark secrets he cannot share with her, and his life is not one he can likewise open to anyone. But what happens when she leaves after awakening desires he thought he has under control? And what happens when he finds himself longing for her?
Cressida goes to a completely different place, one she has only heard in stories and read in books, with hopes of finding what her heart has always longed for. But love, mystery and secrets will chase her and it will only be a matter of time before she realizes what her heart truly desires.
*This story is a standalone title in the Haverston Family series.