A thirst for exotic spices and a zealous desire to spread Christianity propelled Fernando de Magallanes on a perilous voyage - the first circumnavigation of the globe. He leads a fleet of Spanish ships westward, braving treacherous waters and dwindling supplies in search of a new route to the coveted Spice Islands of the East. However, this ambitious quest harbors hidden complexities. Whispers of other motives and personal agendas simmer amongst Magellan's crew, threatening to disrupt the fragile purpose of the expedition.
Meanwhile, on the archipelago called Spice Islands, a storm of a different kind brews. Lapu-Lapu, the resolute chieftain of Mactan, fiercely guards his island's independence. Accustomed to a life dictated by tradition and the rhythm of the waves, he views the arrival of the heavily armored Spanish delegation as a dangerous intrusion. When Magellan attempts to strong-arm him into submission and conversion, Lapu-Lapu refuses to bend.
The stage is set for a pivotal clash. On one side stands an advanced European force, fueled by a desire for wealth and religious dominion. On the other, a fiercely independent island community, led by a warrior chieftain who refuses to compromise his people's freedom. As these opposing forces collide, the outcome of the battle will not only determine the fate of Mactan but also leave an indelible mark on the course of Philippine history.
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.