Cece Louise's Blog, page 2

Desperate Forest Playlist

Whenever I’m enjoying a book, I notice songs start to remind me of the characters and the story. Does that happen to you? If so, you might enjoy this playlist of songs that inspired Desperate Forest!

LISTEN TO PLAYLIST HERE! Red, Red Rose by The Weepies (“I’m not yours and you’re not mine.” My sister played this song for me and said it reminded her of Desperate Forest. I agreed :D)Have You Ever by Brandi Carlile (The ultimate I’m-going-to-get-lost-in-the-woods-for-a-few-hours song.)Roll to Me by Del Amitri (I’ve loved this song since I was a kid. You’ll definitely catch me singing along!)Love Ain’t by The Eli Young Band (I heard this song a lot when I was working on Desperate Forest, and I could not hear it without thinking about Roselynn, Jay, and Darius. I still do.)These Dreams by Heart (Definitely feeling the fairytale vibe with this one! And my sister and I sang this song together growing up like we were Ann and Nancy Wilson :D)Two Princes by The Spin Doctors (I’m a 90s girl at heart! And this one is just perfect!)Meet Me in the Woods by Lord Huron. I love the mysterious vibe of this song. Jay’s song when he’s in Eternity Forest. “The truth is stranger than my own worst dreams.”)In the Morrow by Brandi Carlile (This song reminds me of Roselynn at different points in her journey. “Don’t we always find a way to carry on?”).Name by the Goo Goo Dolls. (A good theme song for any two people on the run for their lives. “You can hide beside me, maybe for a while, and I won’t tell no one your name.”)Hanging by a Moment by Lifehouse. (When our hero realizes he’s falling for out herione and isn’t sure what to do about it. “I’m standing here until you make me move.”)Fare Thee Well by Oscar Isaac (My husband first played this song for me around the time I writing Desperate Forest, and I feel like this is our hero’s song when things are getting rough.)Heart’s Desire by Kip Moore (This song is such a swoonworthy unrequited love song. Seriously, my heart.)The Good Ones by Gabby Barret (When our heroine realizes what she’s got. “The kind you find when you don’t even look . . .”)Heavenly Day by Patty Griffin (This one reminds me of the Epilogue. A perfect happily-ever-after type of song.)Enchanted Forest by the Vault of Ambience. (I’m obsessed with these mood-setting instrumental for when I’m writing. They really help set the vibe and keep me from getting distracted). LISTEN TO PLAYLIST HERE!

What do you think? Did you know some of these songs? Do you have a favorite out of them? Comment below or email me at cece@cecelouise.com and let me know!

The post Desperate Forest Playlist appeared first on Cece Louise.

Deleted Scene: Meet Me in the Woods

PLEASE NOTE: The following contains mild SPOILERS for Desperate Forest! Haven’t read Desperate Forest yet? Get your FREE copy here!

When I originally wrote Desperate Forest, I considered writing alternate POV’s between Roselynn and Jay. In the end, I thought the story’s mystery unfolded better through Roselynn’s eyes only. This is a chapter from Jay’s POV that would have taken place around Chapter 4. I hope you enjoy reading it!

JAY

The sun would be setting soon.

Standing up, I brushed dirt off my pant legs, satisfied that I had finished setting up the last net around our camp before night had fallen. I’d do well to return before dark. It was odd, but the tediousness of setting up the nets never bored me. With a life filled with as much uncertainty and unanswered questions as mine, I found I enjoyed the routine.

With my task completed for another day, I trudged farther into the darkening forest, up a hill, toward where my map had shown me a large river lay on the other side. I’d check it out and see if it was fresh enough for my group to refill our water supply tomorrow before we continued our journey.

As I reached the top of the hill, I pushed through the branches and peered below at a large river rushing into a canyon pool. The water glinted in the last rays of sunlight. I was just about to head down the hill to fill my canteen when I froze.

In the water was a young woman in a white dress running her fingers through her long, brown hair. I blinked, wondering if my mind was playing tricks on me. Except for knights, no one should have been in this forest for miles. Who was this girl?

I stood frozen for a moment. Any stranger, even one as seemingly innocent as a young woman, could be a threat to me and my group. Especially since a woman was not likely to be traveling alone. I should head back to camp immediately, warn the others, and prepare to move our spot. But one thing stopped me.

The girl was shoulder-deep in a river that was home to creatures so terrible they could kill her in a moment. Just what kind of a fool was she?  Didn’t she have any idea of the danger she was in?

Before I could call out to her, she let out a frightened shriek. At first, I thought maybe she had seen me, but then a black eel jumped from the river, striking her.

She screamed, then crashed beneath the water until all I could see were the swaying rivulets of her long hair floating on the surface.

I rushed down the hill, pulling out my knife as I reached the bank, and charged into the river. I prayed the attack had only rendered the girl unconscious and hadn’t killed her. The water was up to my chest by the time I reached her unmoving form. I pulled her into my arms and pressed her close, shielding her from any more river monsters. My steps were loud and lumbered as I splashed back to land.

I laid her gently on her side on the grassy embankment. Water drained from her mouth, and she immediately began coughing and shivering.

I released a relieved breath. She was alive.

“That’s it . . . breathe. You’re all right.” I rubbed one hand on her back encouragingly as the other reached for something to cover the poor woman with. She was only wearing a delicate silk and lace undergarment, which clung to her skin. Its white hem was streaked with mud from the riverbank.

A rich fur cloak lay on the bank beside us. I grabbed it and gently laid it over her shaking body, for both warmth and modesty. As I did, I caught sight of a purple emblem stitched onto the lining. Seizing the soft material, I drew in a sharp breath.

The crest of Tover.

Whoever this girl was she must be someone of consequence for her to have such a fine cloak with a royal insignia sewn on it. An insignia that only meant one thing.

Knights.

There was no way a young woman like this would be traveling alone if she had anything to do with the royal kingdom of Tover.

As the girl continued to cough and gasp for air, I hauled myself up and swiftly retreated into the trees. My heart pounded in my chest as I expected to see a band of knights burst through at any moment.

Hidden by the thicket, I saw the girl push herself up on her hands, breathing easier but still unsteadily, as she looked around her with large, curious eyes.

I told myself she’d be fine as I turned away. The knights traveling with her would find her and tend to her. But still, I felt guilty about leaving her in such a state.

I had no choice. And so, I made my way toward my camp, moving gingerly, to not attract the attention of any Tover knights who were sure to be close by.

Whoever the girl was, she’d live. Now I had to get back to my group to make sure they would too.

~

I crept stealthily through the forest, my senses on high alert for any trace of knights. I cursed the fact that I had re-entered the woods on the other side of the hill, making me that much farther away from my camp. And it had almost grown dark. Luckily, I was skilled enough at navigating the woods to know how to make it back.

My mind was a flurry of uneasy thoughts. Had my group been discovered? Was that why that girl was left alone for so long? Were Tover knights rounding up my companions right this minute? If they were, would I be able to do anything to help them when I got there?

The questions plagued me, but I forced myself not to rush. There was a good chance the camp had not been discovered yet, and we could still move out in time. I needed to be careful if I didn’t want to be found and give away our location.

I wasn’t far from the entrance of the camp when I heard a thud and a loud, feminine cry.

Racing toward the sound, I pulled my knife from my belt. A figure was entrapped by one of my nets, wrestling with it. I couldn’t see who it was through the dark leaves, but clearly, it wasn’t an animal.  

As I weaved through the trees, I saw it was none other than the girl I had pulled from the river. She was very much alive, sawing away at the entwined ropes with a knife. A wave of anger accosted me. Not only was she damaging my nets, but she was also going to lead her knights to my friends.

“Stop that!” Between the netting, I snatched her knife before she could do any more damage. I gripped her by the shoulder, eliciting another surprised shriek from her. Whoever this strange girl was I wanted answers. Now.

“Who are you?” I demanded. “What are you doing in these woods?”

“I’m sorry, sir.” The young woman flinched at my grip, and for a moment, I felt bad for frightening her. “I was out riding when I was thrown from my horse and I’ve been lost ever since. I’m sorry if I’ve trespassed on your land.”

Immediately, my guilt was replaced by fresh irritation. She’d just fed me a blatant lie.

“Do you expect me to believe that?” I shook her shoulder, prepared to frighten her more if necessary. Each moment she toyed with me was a moment closer to my group’s discovery. “You know as well as I that no one lives in this part of the forest! What are you doing here?”

However, my intimidation tactics merely seemed to rile her up. “How dare you? Take your hands off of me! I’ve done nothing wrong, and you have no right to speak to me that way.” Her haughty manner confirmed my suspicion that she was connected to royalty.

My patience wearing thin, I yanked the net off and pulled her up. With the ropes no longer covering her face, I studied her. Although I wasn’t particularly tall, I towered over her. Her slim, graceful frame peeked out between the folds of her opulent cloak. Unwittingly, my mind flashed to when I had pulled her from the river and her curves hadn’t been so hidden.

I banished the thought and returned my gaze to her face. Her soft features were highlighted by her flushed cheeks and alert eyes. Golden-brown waves of hair framed her face and cascaded past her shoulders, ending in silky curls. Something about this girl tugged at my mind, like the shadow of a memory—her hair blowing in a sweet summer breeze, hazel eyes sparkling in the sunshine, and a warm smile directed at me.

But how could that be? There was certainly no warmth coming from her now. Her dark-lashed eyes narrowed, and her lips pursed in disdain as she regarded me.

“What’s your name?” I asked.

“Mary,” she replied quickly. Too quickly.

I didn’t believe her, but I reminded myself that her name wasn’t really what I was concerned with. “Where are you from, Mary?”

“Marcsnovia.”

I tensed. Was that why she looked familiar? Did she recognize me too? Although my friends would be safer, I didn’t want Marcsnovian knights catching up with us any more than I wanted Tover ones to.

“Are you traveling alone?” My voice rose as did the knife in my hand.

“No, I’m traveling with Marcsnovian knights.” She tilted her chin upward as if noting my alarm.

Then I remembered how the cloak she’d worn had borne the crest of Tover, not Marcsnovia.

“You’re lying.” I glared at her, tired of her games and frustrated by the confusion she was causing me. Did I know her? Did she know me? These questions were added to the many that my hazy mind couldn’t quite remember the answers to.

“I’m not—” She gasped as I whirled her around and pushed the blade of my knife flat against the back of her thick cloak.

“Move,” I ordered, my mind as firm as my grip. Whoever this girl was and whoever she was traveling with, I’d be better off taking her to camp than letting her go. If she was traveling with knights—Marcsnovian or Tover—she’d be the only leverage I’d have to keep my friends and myself safe.

We marched forward in silence. Her shoulder tensed beneath my grasp and her steps became rigid with fear. Guilt shot through me. Was this what I had become? An angry, mistrusting intimidator who held an innocent woman at knifepoint? A former knight who once swore to uphold chivalry now reduced to little more than a ruffian? The thought soured further in my mind. Maybe that was who I had been all along.

“I’m not going to hurt you.” My words came out quiet and worn—a feeble attempt to comfort her, or maybe myself.

“Then let me go.” Her voice was flat, as if she already knew her request was useless.

“Believe me”—I gave a humorless laugh—“I’d like nothing more than to be rid of you. But I don’t trust you. Not when you’re clearly lying about who you are and who you’re with. This forest is too ruthless for me to rely on the good faith of a stranger.”

She didn’t respond and I didn’t press her. What could I possibly say that would make her believe me? She likely thought I was a madman or a criminal.

And perhaps she was right. After all, I didn’t remember much about myself, and what I did remember wasn’t good.

We trudged on with the crackling of twigs beneath our feet and our heavy breaths the only sounds in the darkening forest. Oddly enough, whoever this girl was, we had two things in common right now.

We were both terrified and completely distrusting of each other.

© Copyright 2021 Cece Louise. All rights reserved.

Did you enjoy reading this scene? Are there any other scenes you’d like to see from Jay’s (or another character’s) POV? Let me know in the comments or send me an email at cece@cecelouise.com.

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Bonus Scene: In the Dungeon

PLEASE NOTE: The following contains SPOILERS for Desperate Forest! Haven’t read Desperate Forest yet? Get your FREE copy here!

Did you wonder what Darius said to Jay in Desperate Forest to get him to sign the confession? Well, now you can find out! The following is a scene from the upcoming book Mazarine, in which Darius remembers the conversation he and Jay had in the dungeon. Enjoy!

DARIUS

“So,” I said, eyeing Jay between the bars after he’d been secured in the dungeon, pleased to see him sitting on the ground with his wrists bound by chains and shackles. “I just had an interesting conversation with my fiancé. Princess Roselynn certainly seems concerned about your wellbeing.” I stroked my chin. “A lesser man might wonder where her heart truly lies.”

“Leave Roselynn out of this!” Fear sparked in Jay’s eyes. My words had hit their target. “We were traveling together, that’s all.”

“Really?” I sneered at him, although I was pleased. His answer revealed far more than his few words implied—Roselynn was the key to getting rid of this man. “So, my betrothed doesn’t have feelings for you? Could have fooled me.”

“She loves you, Darius.” Jay looked down as he said the words, his voice a quiet rasp, as if speaking them cut his heart. “She always has.” His gaze lifted, resolute. “I don’t care what you do to me, just promise that you’ll take care of her. I need to know she’s safe here.”

“I’m a jealous man, Jay.” I met his stare boldly. “If I thought my fiancé had been disloyal to me, well . . . I can’t guarantee that I would ensure her safety.”

Jay was on his feet in an instant, gripping the bars with his shackled hands. “You better not hurt her! I swear if you do—”

“The way I see it, the problem is you, not her.” I slipped a piece of parchment through the bars. “Once you’re out of the picture, I’m more than willing to love and cherish her as my wife, just as I promised.”

Jay took the offered paper and perused it. After a moment, his gaze met mine. “What do you want me to do, Darius?”

“Sign that confession and you ensure Roselynn’s safety. Refuse, and . . . I may just wonder whether my fiancé has been plotting treason with you. There would be an inquiry and she would answer accordingly.” It was the perfect bluff. I knew it by the way Jay snatched the proffered quill from my hand and scratched his name at the bottom of the confession.

“Smart man.” I grabbed the parchment from him. Finally, I held justice for my father’s death in my hands. Perhaps now the anger and guilt that tormented me would subside.

Satisfied, I looked up and met Jay’s gaze. He scowled at me, but behind his eyes was the same dejected resolution that had been there all along. He truly did love Roselynn.

Anger flamed in my heart—an irrational fury, for it wasn’t as if I loved her—but anger all the same.

You stupid, foolish man, I wanted to scream at him. Do you think your love makes you strong? That your sacrifice makes you noble? It doesn’t. It makes you weak; it makes you a fool. You’re wasting your life for nothing. Just like my father wasted his life, loving someone he couldn’t have, forcing my mother and me to bear the consequences of a man mourning a lost love so he had none left to give us.

But I said none of that.

Instead, I stuffed the confession into my pocket and then faced Jay with a triumphant grin. “I can’t wait to see Roselynn’s face when I show this to her. Maybe then she’ll see you as the lying criminal you are . . . But don’t worry, I’m sure she won’t mourn you for long. She’ll be my wife soon enough, and I’m sure after our wedding, she’ll have forgotten all about you.”

With that, I turned on my heel and left Jay in the dank dungeon, letting his mind torture him with thoughts of the woman he loved wrapped in my arms.

© Copyright 2021 Cece Louise. All rights reserved.

Enjoy this scene? It’s an excerpt from my upcoming book Mazarine (Book 3 in The Forest Tales Series). In it, Darius’s story continues. Want more? Click below to read the first 4 chapters!

SNEAK PEEK OF MAZARINE!

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Title Change: Blue Deep is now Mazarine!

Hello friends, As publication gets closer, Blue Deep has undergone an important change: a title update!

After careful consideration, I have decided to change the title to Mazarine. Writing and publishing a book is an exciting journey with lots of twists and turns along the way, and picking a title is no exception. As I got farther into this story, Blue Deep just didn’t excite me anymore, and I felt that this book needed a title that was more unique and intriguing. 

Since Mazarine is a deep blue color and the story takes place on the Mazarine Sea, it soon became the obvious choice. I have to say, I love how this one-word title shows off more of the beautiful cover! Many thanks to Donna at DLR Cover Designs for designing this breathtaking cover and being so gracious with my request for a title change. If you are an author looking for a cover designer, I HIGHLY recommend working with Donna. She is the best!

What do you think? Do you like the new title? Let me know in the comments! Also, stay tuned for more updates on Mazarine coming very soon, including an offical release date, chapter samples, pre-order incentives, and more! Sign up for my newsletter or follow me on Instagram or Facebook to be notified. 

The post Title Change: Blue Deep is now Mazarine! appeared first on Cece Louise.

Review: All in Good Time by Carolyn Astfalk

MY RATING
 5/5

All in Good Time is a delightful, heart-warming read with substance and depth. It asks some important questions and sprinkles in enough suspense to keep you turning pages until you reach the very end.

This is the first novel I’ve read by Carolyn Astfalk, but it certainly won’t be the last. Astfalk’s writing style is incredibly engaging. She pulls you into the characters’ lives so deeply that you will laugh, cry, and celebrate with them all along the way! I especially loved her portrayal of Melanie, a widowed mother of three. Melanie’s struggles were relatable, and there were many heart-wrenching and laugh-out-loud moments that endeared me to Melanie and her family. Each child had a unique personality that enriched the story, making them more than just cute side characters.

Astfalk did a wonderful job handling the slow-burn romance, tackling some real-life, difficult issues with grace and care. She also brought to life realistic, flawed characters that the reader will fall in love with and remember long after they’ve closed the book.

All in Good Time is a thought-provoking read that addresses the difference between real versus superficial love, the struggle of overcoming past mistakes, and how faith ties into it all.

Synopsis

With three rambunctious, young children, Melanie Lombardi can’t see beyond the day-to-day struggle to maintain her home and her sanity since her husband’s sudden death. A second chance at romance isn’t on her radar.

Brian Perella is done with dating, resigned to being the fun uncle and never the dad. Until he meets Melanie and her brood of lively kids on the sidelines of a Little League game.

Nut when Brian uncovers a co-worker’s secret, it re-ignites a temptation that Melanie can’t know about. It’s his secret to keep until an unexpected diagnosis brings everything to the surface, jeopardizing his future with Melanie and her children, who, when threatened by an unknown stalker, may need him now more than ever.

Buy on Amazon!





Goodreads







About the Author

Carolyn Astfalk resides with her husband and four children in Hershey, Pennsylvania, where it smells like either chocolate or manure, depending on wind direction. She is the author of the contemporary Catholic romances Stay With Me, Come Back to Me, Ornamental Graces, and All in Good Time, and the coming-of-age story Rightfully Ours. Carolyn is a member of the Catholic Writers Guild, Catholic Teen Books, Pennwriters, and is a CatholicMom.com contributor. True to her Pittsburgh roots, she still says “pop” instead of “soda,” although her beverage of choice is tea.

Website: www.carolynastfalk.com

Facebook: @CarolynMAstfalk
Instagram: @cmastfalk
Twitter: @CMAstfalk

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Review: Midnight on the River Grey by Abigail Wilson

MY RATING
 5/5

I loved this book! The setting, the suspense, the romance . . . everything was spot on. I grew up reading Victoria Holt novels and Abigail Wilson’s style reminds me a lot of Holt’s. I also really enjoyed Wilson’s debut novel, In the Shadow of Croft Towers, putting Wilson high up on my favorite current authors list.

Midnight on the River Grey pulled me in from the first line and never let go. I adore the Gothic mood Wilson sets throughout the whole story, and the way she weaves together history, fiction, suspense, and romance to give her readers a fast-paced yet intricate ride. There are lots of twists and turns along the way, and Wilson’s writing will keep you enthralled.

Rebecca is a spirited, relatable heroine and I really enjoyed her spunk. After the loss of her brother, she’s grieving, angry, and searching for answers. I felt her pain and cheered her on as she fought to discover the truth.

I loved Rebecca’s interactions with Lewis and their relationship grew at a good pace. One of my favorite things about Wilson’s writing is that she keeps the romance clean, but that doesn’t mean that it lacks chemistry. Rebecca and Lewis were both interesting characters who held their own on the page, and I was spellbound every time they encountered one another.

Five stars to Abigail Wilson for this wonderful story that is Gothic romance at its best! It’s safe to say I’m eagerly awaiting all of Wilson’s future books.

Synopsis

In this Gothic Regency romance Rebecca fears she has developed feelings for the man she swore to see hanged, her brother’s murderer.

After her brother’s mysterious death, Rebecca Hunter vows to expose the man she believes responsible: Mr. Lewis Browning—known by the locals as the Midnight Devil and by Rebecca as her new guardian.

Summoned to his reclusive country estate to await her London season, Rebecca plans her own secret investigation among the darkened corridors of the mysterious Greybourne Hall. Yet Lewis Browning is not as she once imagined, and his motivation is horribly unclear. Recurrent nightmares and Rebecca’s restless feelings are further complicated by the shadow of her mother’s prior descent into madness and wondering if she, too, will follow the same heartbreaking path.

Even as midnight rides, strange injuries, and further murders lead back to Mr. Browning, Rebecca can’t ignore the subtle turn of her heart. Has she fallen for the man she swore would pay for her brother’s death? And moreover, can she trust him with her uncertain future?

Buy on Amazon!





Goodreads







About the Author

Abigail Wilson combines her passion for Regency England with intrigue and adventure to pen historical mysteries with a heart. A Registered Nurse, chai tea addict, and mother of two crazy kids, Abigail fills her spare time hiking the National Parks, attending her daughter’s gymnastic meets, and curling up with a great book. In 2017, Abigail won WisRWA’s Fab Five contest and in 2016, ACFW’s First Impressions contest as well as placing as a 2017 finalist in the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense. She is a cum laude graduate of the University of Texas at Austin and currently lives in Dripping Springs, Texas, with her husband and children.

Website: www.acwilsonbooks.com

Facebook: ACWilsonbooks
Twitter: @acwilsonbooks
Instagram: @acwilsonbooks

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Review: For Christian Writer Moms by Laura Frances

MY RATING
 5/5

Ever read a book and think, “How did the author know I was thinking that?” That’s how I felt almost the entire time I read this book. Laura Frances did an amazing job of addressing the struggles I’ve faced on my journey as a mom, writer, and Christian, and I highly recommend this book!

Francis addressed so many pertinent topics, such as finding time to write, dealing with mom guilt, using the talents God gave you, handling negative reviews, and so much more. This was such a timely read because, with the Coronavirus pandemic, my “normal” as a mother and writer has been turned upside (as I’m sure it has for almost everyone).

Reading this book was like taking a deep breath of fresh air. It reminded me that it’s okay for how I work to change and that God is in the driver’s seat. Some days, when things are feeling like too much, it’s easy to think about giving up on your dreams. Frances addressed that by reminding her readers’ that God gives you your talents for a reason, and that you owe it to Him, your kids, others, and yourself to share those gifts.

This is a short and sweet read that I will definitely revisit whenever I need a pick-me-up or a reminder of God’s plan for me. Thank you, Laura Frances, for this honest, inspiring book. It couldn’t have come at a better time. Your honesty and encouragement are what every mom needs as she sets out on her own beautiful journey.

* I received an ARC from the author. The thoughts expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Synopsis

“It wasn’t easy transitioning to become a WRITER MOM. I struggled with everything from imposter syndrome to guilt…and still do at times. But as I sat at the dining room table one evening, hunched over a legal pad, scratching words at breakneck speed…I knew there was no going back. I was transfixed. Finding my voice. A voice I’d suppressed under years of insecurity and exhaustion.

My friend, if God has given you the green light, then hear me on this.

Close your eyes, block out the chaos for a moment and accept this truth.

We are all given gifts and passions to serve a purpose. (Ephesians 2:10) It matters that you love to write. It matters that you have something to say. Someone needs to hear the words trapped inside of you. To be a mom is to be a world-changer…but it’s okay if you’re called to do even more.”

Mom life can be isolating in itself. Add to that a creative ambition like writing, and you’re sure to feel the pressure. In this short read, author Laura Frances discusses her earliest years battling fear, draws on those experiences to find courage in writing, and strives to encourage Christian writing moms as they walk out their faith in both family and career.

Buy on Amazon!





Goodreads







About the Author

Laura Frances grew up a shy thing, always daydreaming. She is now the author of the Slave series, a clean, dystopian story. Residing in midwest America as a wife, mother, homeschool teacher, and writer, Frances strives to convince others through the art of storytelling that they can do the things they think they can’t.

Facebook: @lfranny
Twitter: @Lfrances_author
Instagram: @laurafrances_author

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Blue Deep Synopsis Reveal

Hello, friends! I’m so excited to finally share the synopsis for Blue Deep (The Forest Tales Series, Book 3), coming late 2020 or early 2021. A lot of you have been wondering who the returning character is, so . . . let’s find out!

She’s cursed. He’s dead. How far will they go to change their fates?

Princess Marilee is cursed. A mermaid by day and a human by night, a fateful decision has left her trapped between two worlds.

Disgraced Prince Darius is dead. At least, that’s what he wants everyone to think when he’s thrown overboard from a prison ship.

When Marilee and Darius meet, they reluctantly make a deal—Darius will help Marilee return to her family in exchange for enough money so he can disappear forever.

A doomed girl and a condemned man. Can they find redemption, or will they be lost to an unforgiving sea?

ADD BLUE DEEP TO YOUR READING LIST






goodreads

That’s right! Darius from Desperate Forest is getting his own book! What do you think? Love the idea? Hate it? Or somewhere in between?

Some of you might be wondering if I planned this from the start, and the answer is nope! In fact, when I wrote Desperate Forest, I almost killed Darius off in the end.

Once I decided to write a series, I got the idea to write a mermaid book. It seemed to fit with the fairy tale vibe of the world, and my 3-year-old daughter was obsessed with mermaids at the time. I admit, my initial thought was something like, “Hmm…I should write a mermaid book so Mia thinks I’m cool someday.”

As I brainstormed about that idea, I came back to the idea of using a character from the prison ship I mentioned at the end of Desperate Forest. It made sense because it was on the ocean. And then, I thought, what if I wrote about Darius?

No, I dismissed it. That wouldn’t work, I decided. He was a bad guy and people wouldn’t want to read about him. So I started brainstorming about the female lead and decided I’d probably just come up with a new character for the guy.

But as I got further into brainstorming, I realized the male lead I was envisioning was Darius. Like it or not, my brain had decided his story wasn’t over! So I threw the idea out to a few of my beta readers and they said go for it. And here we are.

So what do you think? Are you interested in reading more of Darius’s story? Do you think he can be redeemed? Let me know in the comments!

Have more questions about Blue Deep? Connect with me on social media. I love hearing from my readers!

And stay tuned for more updates on Blue Deep, including an official release date and sneak peeks.

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The Jabberwocky Princess Sample

© 2019 Cece Louise. All rights reserved. 

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Chapter 1– KAINDA –

“It happened again!” I burst into the stable, commanding my best friend’s attention.

“What did?” Larkin looked up from the chestnut horse he was tending and flashed a crooked grin. He was familiar with—but not overly concerned by—my dramatic entrances.

“Another monster attack,” I said, trying to catch my breath as I sat down on a bale of hay. “Last week, a whole herd of livestock was massacred in the middle of the night. The farmer and his family awoke in the morning to find the carnage—what was left anyway.”

Larkin knit his brows. “Where did this happen?”

“Fernshire again.” I handed him the piece of paper I’d just picked up in the Galesmore village describing the horrific scene.

Larkin perused it, then shook his head. “At least it happened at night . . . It’s a miracle no one was hurt.”

“Yes, but look.” I pulled two more papers from my pocket and smoothed them. “A similar slaughter happened at a farm on the outskirts of Fernshire two weeks ago, and”—I handed them to Larkin—“several people have gone missing from around Fernshire—especially close to Eternity Forest.”

“What do you think it is?”

“I don’t know.” I swiped away an unruly lock of red hair that had escaped my messy braid. “But whatever it is, these attacks sound very similar to the monster my father hunted in Fernshire before he disappeared . . .” I bit my lip. “What if it’s back?”

Concern flickered in Larkin’s eyes as he laid a gentle hand on my arm. “That was over four years ago. It could be just a coincidence.”

I handed him one last document. “Fernshire is in a state of panic. This is the third attack they’ve had in the past month. They want the beast stopped. In fact, the king has promised his daughter’s hand in marriage to anyone who slays it.”

“Really?” Larkin glanced at me. He was far too used to my outrageous imaginings to take everything I said seriously, but I knew this news had caused him to realize the severity of the situation.

I nodded. “People are fleeing Fernshire. Meat and crops are in low supply. The monster is ravaging their countryside.”

Larkin’s brown eyes dimmed with worry as he thought hard, weighing the gravity of everything I’d just said.

The stable door swung open and a gruff voice called out. “Larkin! In the courtyard now! Prince Ander has called a meeting with the knights.”

“Okay.” Larkin dropped the horse brush he’d been holding and wiped the back of his hand on his trouser leg. “I’ll be right there, Korth.”

“Be quick.” The knight named Korth sneered at Larkin, then ran his obtrusive gaze over me. I crossed my arms and fixed him with a wrathful stare. 

Korth licked his lips, then left the stable. Larkin reached for his previously discarded armor and began putting it on over his stable clothes.

“A surprise meeting with the knights . . .” I picked up Larkin’s face mask, fingering the cool metallic surface. “I bet it’s about the attacks in Fernshire.”

Larkin looked up from adjusting his breastplate. “You don’t know that. Prince Ander probably just wants to assemble his knights to make us do something completely useless, like teach him how to win his next tavern brawl.”

I gave a short laugh. “I guess that’s a possibility too.”

Prince Ander, the youngest of the five Galesmore princes, was best known around the kingdom for his immature antics and foolish revelries. Rumor had it that the king had threatened to disown him if he didn’t stay out of trouble and take a more serious interest in the kingdom.

“But if it is about the attacks . . .” I thrust on Larkin’s facial armor and shoved my long red braid inside the helmet, taking care that no stray hairs showed.

“What are you doing?” Larkin stared at me as I loosened my gown and slipped it down my shoulders to reveal a tunic top underneath and an old pair of Larkin’s black trousers. Whenever I wasn’t restricted to my maid duties around the castle, I took to the forest in this outfit to hunt or practice swordplay with Larkin.

“I’m coming with you,” I said, my voice slightly muffled behind the faceplate.

“Are you insane?” Larkin’s eyes grew wide. “You look ridiculous.”

“I’ll stand behind you. No one is going to notice me in the throng with the other knights.” I bent down to tuck my pant legs into my black riding boots. “Besides, it’s an impromptu meeting. I’m sure not everyone will be wearing full armor.”

“You’re going to get us both kicked out of the palace. I’ll be a disgraced knight.”

“Stop being so dramatic. I want the real story behind this monster. I can’t rely on any of the gossip in the maids’ quarters.” I headed for the door. “They’re all so flighty.” I didn’t mention the real reason I wouldn’t learn anything from them—none of the maids liked me.

“So wait until I’m done, and I’ll tell you everything.” Larkin rushed up behind me.

“You might miss something important.” I took long strides, appreciating that I was no longer inhibited by my heavy gown. “Now hurry up, we don’t want them to start without us.”

Larkin groaned but jogged to keep up. “You’re going to feel awfully foolish when you get roped into herding swans to impress Prince Ander’s latest visiting princess.”

“If that’s the case, you’ll be glad to have me. Swans are nasty creatures with vile temperaments—my specialty.”

Larkin laughed. “Kainda, the monster hunter. How could I forget?”

~

As Larkin and I entered the courtyard, I was relieved that most of the knights had already gathered, allowing us to slip into the back of the horde unnoticed. As we took our places in the crowd, I heard a few murmurs of “spoiled prince” and “a waste of time.”

I fidgeted with my tunic in nervous anticipation. I hoped my deception wouldn’t really end up being a waste of time.

Although I often disregarded Larkin’s worries, he had a point. If I were discovered impersonating a knight, I’d likely be dismissed from my job as a kitchen maid. Not something I could afford to happen, given my circumstances.

Looking around, I was pleased to see that many of the knights were dressed in tunics and trousers like me, not in full armor like Larkin. I smiled. He was such an overachiever.

I lifted the faceplate of my helmet to see better and appear less conspicuous. Most knights were not wearing their armor masks.

Galesmore’s head knight, Sir Ivan, entered the balcony overlooking the courtyard, then announced in a booming voice, “Your Royal Majesty, Prince Ander!”

A respectful hush fell across the crowd as Prince Ander stepped onto the balcony. Regardless of what the knights thought of the king’s youngest son, no one would risk speaking out against him where he could hear.

As a small line of knights followed and assembled behind him, Prince Ander strode toward the balustrade, looking every bit as royal and arrogant as I remembered. His dark blond hair was perfectly groomed to one side, and his rich, cerulean coat—probably worth more than my year’s earnings—highlighted his cool blue eyes.

The prince relaxed his angular jaw as he surveyed the crowd, looking down his long nose at us. He cleared his throat. “Good afternoon. As I’m sure most of you are aware by now, the kingdom of Fernshire is facing a crisis.”

I nudged Larkin in the ribs to say, I told you so. He grunted and pushed my elbow away as Prince Ander continued.

“A terrible beast has descended upon them, bringing destruction and death with it.” Although Prince Ander’s words were grim, his languid expression gave me the impression that he might yawn at any moment. “As close neighbors and friends of Fernshire, it is our duty to come to their aid.”

I snorted in amusement and whispered to Larkin, “I’m sure the princess being offered as a reward for slaying the beast had no bearing on this decision.”

Larkin nodded. It was long known that Prince Ander’s father, King Malcolm, wished to grow his imperial power by uniting Galesmore and Fernshire. However, rumor had it that King Nicholas of Fernshire wouldn’t agree to a marriage between his only daughter and a rogue like Prince Ander. Apparently, there was finally a chance for the match King Malcolm sought. The fact that the Princess of Fernshire was said to be extremely beautiful probably hadn’t caused Prince Ander to protest.

“I will assemble a team of my best knights,” Prince Ander said, “to join me in hunting and slaying this beast.”

An excited murmur broke out among the crowd. No matter what public opinion of Prince Ander was, knights were trained for challenges such as this. They lived for excitement. I felt a pang of envy that I would never be allowed to share in that exhilaration. How I longed to experience adventures like the ones my father had told me stories of as a child.

“Now”— Prince Ander motioned to the line of men behind him—“I’ve already selected several knights to be part of my team. Men who have proven themselves courageous, strong, and clever . . . but I am looking for additional knights who can prove they add value to our mission.”

The excited din grew louder, but Prince Ander raised his hand.

“Before we begin the selection process, I would like to make it very clear what you are getting yourself into. The Fernshire beast is a formidable foe—not only are we unsure of exactly what we are facing, but we’ve also seen proof this monster is able to bring death to its adversaries swiftly and painfully.” He frowned. “If you volunteer for this expedition, be prepared that you may not make it out alive.”

Silence descended upon the crowd as Prince Ander’s grave words dampened the thrill-seeking spirit.

The prince surveyed the group with a solemn eye, then continued. “For those of you still interested, I’d like to hear what you think you could bring to this mission.”

Hands shot up in the air and yells rang out as eager knights vied for a chance to be the next hero.

“One at a time, please.” Prince Ander nodded to a man in the front.

“Your Highness, I heard the beast was a lynx. Cunning creatures and terribly hard to—”

“No!” Another knight pushed forward. “It was a pack of wolves! They bite like bears, they do, and have ferocious appetites—”

“Nonsense!” A gruff voice declared, “Only a pride of lions could butcher a herd like that—”

Before I knew what I was doing, I spoke up. “A lynx is native to the northern regions and thrives in a much colder climate, so it’s highly unlikely one would end up in Fernshire—especially this time of year. Wolf packs are easy to track, so they would leave behind obvious signs. And lions have been extinct in this region since the Roman conquest.”

The crowd fell silent as everyone turned to stare at me.

“Well, those are some interesting observations,” Prince Ander said, spreading his hands behind his back. “So, what do you think the beast is?”

I glanced around, then caught Larkin’s gaze. He shot me a warning look that said, Don’t you dare answer that. But I couldn’t very well ignore a question from the prince.

I cleared my throat and lifted my chin. “I don’t know, exactly. A bear, perhaps, or even a dragon—”

Laughter and jeers broke out among the other knights.

“Hear that, lads? Next, we’ll be hunting unicorns and fishing for mermaids!” Korth, the knight who’d summoned Larkin earlier, said with a chortle.

The prince raised his hand to silence the crowd. “A dragon? I must say, after your previous statement I was hoping for a more intelligent answer than that.”

“Your Highness,” I said, ready to defend myself, “while the dragon has long been regarded as a myth, there are those who believe—”

“Remove your facial armor when addressing the prince!” the head knight, Sir Ivan, demanded from behind Prince Ander.

I hesitated, knowing if I did, I would reveal myself to not be a knight.

“Now!” Sir Ivan barked again.

I glared at him, but seeing no other option, yanked my mask off. Gasps and angry cries sounded around me as my long, red braid tumbled out, several loose locks of hair falling around my face.

“It’s a woman!”

“That explains it . . .”

“Must be crazy, that one.”

“What is the meaning of this?” Sir Ivan marched to the edge of the balcony and stood next to Prince Ander, his ruddy face looking like it might explode. “Your Highness, I assure you, I have no idea who this woman is.”

Amidst the commotion, I dared a glimpse at the prince. His mouth twitched as he glanced at his head knight.

“Don’t just stand there, you fools!” Ivan pointed to me as if I were a threat to everyone’s safety. “Seize her!”

Before I could run, rough hands enclosed my shoulders and arms.

“Let go of me!” I struggled to break free, wishing I’d had the foresight to wear Larkin’s sword as part of my deception. Maybe then I could have forced these louts to unhand me.

“Listen here, young lady.” Sir Ivan raised a meaty finger, his black moustache bouncing above his lip with every syllable. “I don’t know what you think you’re playing at, but impersonating a knight and infiltrating a private meeting is a severe—”

“Ivan.” Prince Ander placed a hand on his head knight’s shoulder. “I’m sure there’s a reasonable explanation. Why don’t you just let her explain?”

“Hmph!” Sir Ivan straightened his armor over his large middle, then reluctantly gave the signal for the knights to release me.

Once their hold loosened, I pushed myself away from the knights and threw my shoulders back.

“What’s your name?” Prince Ander asked.

“Kainda.”

“And just who are you, Kainda?” The prince rubbed his jaw. “And more importantly, what brings you to this meeting of my knights this afternoon?”

“I’m a kitchen maid here at the palace, Your Highness.” I took a deep breath, unsure if he was angry. “I wanted to learn more about the monster attacks in Fernshire.”

“I see . . . And why is a maid like yourself so interested in this monster?”

“My father.” I stood a little taller. “He was a great hunter and knew everything about wild beasts. My mother and I travelled all over the world with him while he vanquished monsters. He started teaching me about them when I was very young, and I’ve never stopped being fascinated.”

Prince Ander stepped closer. “Where is your father now?”

I swallowed thickly. “He’s dead.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.” He did, at least, sound genuine.

“Thank you.”

“Unfortunately, due to the nature of this meeting and the fact that you are not a knight, I must ask you to leave.”

“Of course.” I set Larkin’s helmet on the ground, not too close to his feet. I didn’t want to make it obvious that he was the knight I’d gotten it from. No use getting him in trouble too.

As I walked away, ignoring the angry glares and whispers from some of the knights, I released a long, shaky breath. I was lucky to have kept my job after being discovered, but there was still a heaviness in my heart that I’d come no closer to learning more about the monster in Fernshire.

Ever since my father had gone missing and been presumed dead, I felt closest to him when recalling his tales about the creatures he’d seen and vanquished.

When memories weren’t enough, I pored over his books, trying to glean any extra information I could about the beasts he had faced.

But of course, there was one that really held my interest. The one my father had finally not been able to conquer—the unknown monster he’d faced in Fernshire over four years ago.

~

“But why can’t I come with you, Father?” I had handed my father his hunting dagger in its leather strap as I helped him pack for his next journey. “I trapped a wolf by myself yesterday. I’m ready.”

“This is different, Kainda.” My father had looked up from the bag he was packing to give me a warm smile. “Someday you’ll come on all of my hunts with me. We’ll be a legendary duo, slaying beasts in every land. But”—he flashed a mischievous grin—“your mother will have my head if I take you away from your studies now. You’re only fifteen, my dear. There will be plenty of time for hunting monsters when you’re older. Once you’ve completed your education.”

I rolled my eyes. “My studies are so boring. I’d much rather be with you—exploring, hunting, and saving kingdoms from ferocious beasts.”

“I know.” My father gave me a fond grin, then held up a finger. “But don’t underestimate your education, Kainda. Much of what I learned about beasts, I first learned from studying. There is more to hunting monsters than just finding them—you must understand them as well. And more importantly, you have to have the prudence to know when to attack and when to hold back.”

“I know, I know, the three principles of the hunt.” I was practically able to recite them in my sleep. “Education: one must identify the monster. Bravery: one must be able to face the monster. And wisdom: one must be able to understand the monster.”

“That’s right. Remember, the hunt isn’t about the glory or the excitement, it’s about keeping others—and yourself—safe.”

“Where are you going tomorrow?”

“A kingdom called Fernshire.” My father led me to a map on his desk and pointed to it. “Right here. It’s a small kingdom, but a proud one. They’ve been plagued by a mysterious monster for several weeks now. There have been no witnesses to the attacks—none that have survived, anyhow—and no one knows for certain what the beast is.”

“But I bet you do,” I said, feeling proud.

My father laughed. “I have my suspicions, yes.” He reached behind him and grabbed a large black book and placed it in his bag.

Before I could decide which of my many questions to ask next, my father ruffled my hair.

“I’ll know more when I get to Fernshire,” he said, buckling his bag.

“I wish I were going with you.”

“I do too. But if the beast plaguing Fernshire is as fearsome as the rumors say, I’d much rather have you somewhere safe. That’s why I’ve arranged for your mother and you to wait for me here in Galesmore.”

“I hope you slay the beast quickly, so you can return and teach me to hunt elk this winter.”

“I’ll certainly do my best, Kainda. In the meantime, take good care of your mother, and keep your mind on your studies.”

“I will, Father,” I said as he wrapped me in a large hug. I took a deep breath, inhaling the familiar scent of woodsmoke from his hunting clothes.

My father had departed early the next morning, but he hadn’t come back that winter. Or at all.

The beast in Fernshire had proven to be troublesome, and one fateful morning, my father led seven Fernshire knights on a hunt. No one returned.

The bodies of the knights were found, scattered across a canyon with arrows buried in their chests. No beast had killed them. They’d been murdered.

But my father’s body was never found.

News of the incident spread, as did speculation. Some believed that my father, the great monster hunter known for his eccentric ways, had finally gone insane and murdered every one of the knights in his madness.

Of course, my mother and I knew my father would never do such a thing. We believed my father had been killed by the beast he’d tried so hard to vanquish—or by whomever killed the knights.

But that didn’t stop the talk from spreading. With my father no longer around to provide for us, I’d been extremely lucky to secure a position in the Galesmore palace as a maid.

The oddest thing about the knights’ murders and my father’s disappearance was that—although there were no survivors—the beast of Fernshire had vanished without a trace as well. The kingdom was never troubled by it again.

Until perhaps now, four years later.

~

I was in my usual spot in the kitchen, cleaning after the evening meal, when Larkin found me.

“Well?” I dropped the silver dish I’d been polishing. “How did it go? Were you one of the knights selected?”

Larkin shook his head and picked up a rag. “Not even close. I tried to remember some of the information you told me about monster hunting, but a lot of the other knights were”—he swiped a silver spoon with his rag—“more enthusiastic.”

I nodded. It wasn’t Larkin’s dream to hunt beasts like it was mine, but I knew he still wanted to prove himself to his fellow knights.

Larkin had worked in the stable since he’d been orphaned as a boy—until a few years ago when he was promoted to a knight. Although, sometimes I thought he would have preferred to have stayed in the stable.

“It’s okay, Larkin.” I placed a hand on his shoulder. “I don’t think I could bear it if you went away and I was stuck here”—I picked up a dainty fork—“polishing silver and washing floors.”

“Yeah, I know.” Larkin pushed his brown hair away from his eyes. “I would hate that too. It’s just, I’ve been a knight for over three years now, and no one takes me seriously. They think because I’m quiet, I’m not brave or—”

“Well, they’re idiots! I mean, did you see how most of them reacted today when I took off my mask? Like I was some evil sorceress ready to wreak havoc on the kingdom.” I rolled my eyes. “Heaven forbid a woman would ever want to do anything but darn stockings.”

Larkin grinned. “Sir Ivan was the worst. I think he was hoping Prince Ander would throw you in the dungeon.”

The door to the kitchen swung open and another maid, Greta, strolled in.

“Oh, hello, Larkin.” Greta flashed him a winning smile and sauntered up to him, swaying her hips before placing a hand on his arm. “You’re looking quite handsome today.”

“Hello, Greta.” He stepped away from her. “You’re looking, uh . . . healthy.”

I laughed. Of all the maids, Greta was the biggest flirt. She was also very beautiful and wasn’t used to having her flirtations ignored. Although she’d had her eye on Larkin for a while, he’d rebuffed all her advances.

Greta turned from Larkin to glare at me.

“Kainda.” Her hostile expression changed to sickeningly sweet. “You’re needed in the parlor. Right away.”

“All right.” I wiped my hands on a towel, trying not to be alarmed by her fake smile. “Who’s asking for me?” I was worried it was Madam Prudence, the head maid, ready to scold me for my mishap today. Greta would love that.

Greta tossed her hair. “Prince Ander.”

Chapter 2– OPAL –

“Father!” I hurried down the palace’s marble halls, lifting my heavy skirt so my legs could keep up with my fury. I pushed open the door of my father’s royal study, not bothering to request permission to enter like I normally did, and cast a piece of paper onto his desk. “What is this?”

“Opal, my dear,” my father began as he rose from his chair, but I quickly cut him off.

“Is it not enough that you make a spectacle of me for endless, egotistical princes at your ridiculous balls, but now this? You’re going to sell me to whoever eradicates your latest problem?” Letting out a mirthless laugh, I pointed a well-manicured finger. “That’s low, even for you, Father.”

“Opal.” My father’s voice turned stern. “Fernshire is facing a crisis. Our people are suffering, and as their king, it is my duty to protect them. Since my knights have been unsuccessful in stopping this creature, we need extra help.” He glanced down at the paper I had flung on his desk. “In order to get that help, I need to offer an incentive.”

“An incentive?” My voice rose, and I mentally cringed at how shrill it sounded. “Is that all I am to you?”

“Your Highness.” My father’s head knight, Sir Bayne, took a step toward me and raised a placating hand. “You’re overexerting yourself. Why don’t you have a seat before you become faint?”

I shot Bayne a threatening glare. “You stay out of this.” I loathed Sir Bayne and his smarmy manner, meticulously groomed beard, and overly polished boots. While my father seemed to value his pandering, I certainly didn’t. Bayne was nothing but an opportunist who would go along with whatever my father said if it could improve his station. After all, that was how he had risen to head knight so young, not even thirty years old.

Bayne’s eyes turned hard, but he took a step back and gave a small, respectful nod. “As you wish, Your Highness.”

“Now, Opal,” my father said, “there is no need to attack Bayne. This was my decision—”

“What is going on in here?” My mother entered the study, her disapproval radiating like a beacon. “Opal, I could hear your outburst from the parlor. Must I remind you that a princess does not behave in such a fashion?”

I snatched the paper off my father’s desk and handed it to her. “Did you know about this?”

My mother gave me a warning look, then perused the document. I watched her carefully as she took in the information.

“Nicholas.” A dour expression crossed her features. “Why was I not consulted about this?”

Raising his hands, my father left his spot behind the desk. My mother and I both glared at him now.

“There simply wasn’t time, Liennet,” he said. “The villagers are panicking, and I have farmers in an uproar over their lost livestock and destroyed crops. We need a solution to this problem, and we need one quickly.”

“So it’s been decided.” My mother’s voice was cold.

“Yes, apparently it has.” I mimicked her tone. My mother and I didn’t have much in common, save our lustrous black hair and tall stature, but this was one time I wished I had her fierce authority. “I just came back from a ride in the village, and these posters were plastered everywhere. And I heard father already sent out a team of knights to spread them throughout other kingdoms as well.”

“Enough!” My father finally raised his voice. “I’ve had enough of your childishness, Opal. Your duty is to your people. They are suffering, and this is how you can help them.” He returned to the other side of his desk and sat down heavily. “Besides, if you hadn’t turned your nose up at every suitable prince I’ve introduced you to, I wouldn’t have to resort to this.” My father pulled his quill and ink blotter toward him and placed a hand to his forehead. “At this rate, I’ll have to marry you off to Sir Bayne as there will be no one left to have you.”

“It would be an honor, Your Majesty,” Sir Bayne said, standing up a little straighter. I wanted to slap him.

Instead, I pursed my lips. “Yes, well, your idea of who’s suitable is much different than mine, Father.” I spun on my heel and stormed out, slamming the door behind me.

From inside the study, I heard my mother say, “Really, Nicholas, I wish you’d discussed this with me first.”

Hurrying down the hall, I ignored the servants who scurried away trying to pretend they hadn’t been eavesdropping. My favorite maid, Samena, sent me a sympathetic look, which only made me feel more wretched.

I climbed the stairs to my room, then threw myself down on my window seat and looked out over the palace grounds. They were vast and vibrant, the first leaves beginning to change color for autumn. However, for all their splendor, I may as well have been staring at four blank walls.

My fate had been decided. In a few weeks, I’d likely be married to a stranger and forced to leave my home. A tear trickled down my cheek, but I swiped it away, telling myself I didn’t care. My father certainly didn’t, and my mother seemed more concerned that she hadn’t been able to weigh in on the plan than the actual outcome.

I pulled my knees to my chest and let my tears fall freely. For all my wealth, status, and titles, what was I really, but a commodity?

 

Chapter 3– KAINDA –

“Kainda, isn’t it?” Prince Ander asked as I entered the parlor. He was reclined in a plush wingback chair across from the fireplace, his long legs stretched out and arms languid by his sides.

“Yes, Your Highness.” I curtsied, almost tipping over in the process as I tried to calm my racing heart.

“Please have a seat.” Prince Ander motioned to a matching chair across from him.

This was it. He was going to dismiss me for the incident at the meeting today. He’d just chosen not to do it earlier in front of an audience. My throat went dry as I thought about my mother. How would I take care of her now? No wonder Greta had been so smug in the kitchen.

“If I may, Your Majesty.” I folded my hands in my lap as I sat down. At this point, I was not above begging. “I sincerely apologize for my behavior today. I know it was completely inappropriate, but I promise, nothing like that will ever happen again. Sometimes, I don’t think before I act, but I assure you, I’m—”

He held up a hand. “Do you always talk this much?”

I shrugged. “When the occasion calls for it.”

“I see.” He stood and walked to the fireplace, turning his back to me. “I had quite the report about you from Madam Prudence . . .”

I swallowed slowly, knowing whatever the head maid had said about me wouldn’t be good. “And what did she say?”

“Let’s see . . . Daydreams during her work. Not punctual. Terribly untidy. A poor cook.” He stared into the flames, continuing his litany of my offenses as if they bored him. “Apparently, now we can add ‘likes impersonating knights’ to that list as well.”

My back stiffened. Clearly, the prince was intent on humiliating me before dismissing me.

“In fact,” he went on, “it didn’t sound like Madam Prudence was impressed with you at all.”

“Very well.” I cleared my throat, not at all appreciating his game. “I’ll pack my belongings and make arrangements to leave the castle as soon as possible.”

“Now hold on a minute.” He tore his gaze from the crackling fire. “I think you may have misunderstood.”

I shifted in my seat. “No, I think your meaning is quite clear. You have no use for me in this kingdom, so I’m being dismissed for my behavior today.”

He waved his hand. “Being curious is not a crime. In fact, I rather like that tenacity in my knights. Which is why I’m asking you to be a part of my team.”

“You’re what?”

He sat again and leaned forward. “I talked with scores of knights today, and not one of them seemed to know as much about hunting beasts as you.”

“So . . . you’re not dismissing me?”

“No, I’m not dismissing you.” His lips quirked into a smile. “I was simply pointing out that you don’t seem to be very happy with—or well suited to—your job as a maid . . . and maybe you’d be interested in another opportunity.”

“And just what opportunity is that?” I didn’t trust him one bit. I knew he was well aware of what his words had implied.

“I have a team of some of the most highly skilled knights that you could imagine. However, the one thing we don’t have is knowledge of our foe. That’s where you come in. After the meeting today, I checked my library about what you said. It’s all true.”

He nodded to a nearby table where several large books sat. “So that tells me you do, in fact, have some understanding of beasts and how to hunt them.” He scrutinized me. “Now, I’m not sure I agree with you that the beast that’s troubling Fernshire could actually be a dragon . . . Although, if that is the case, I haven’t the first idea on how to defeat it. But I think you might.”

His words were so surprising, I was almost rendered speechless. But that wasn’t something that usually happened to me. “So what are you asking me to do, exactly?”

“Join my team, as I said. Come with us to Fernshire and share your knowledge. Look at the signs the monster has left behind, then help us identify it and come up with a plan to defeat it. You obviously won’t be expected to fight the beast. You’ll be there as . . . an adviser, if you will.”

I narrowed my eyes. “And what’s in it for me?”

He tapped his fingers together. “You mean besides the fact that you’ll get to relinquish the grand title of The Worst Maid Galesmore Has Ever Seen?” He paused. “You’ll be compensated handsomely for your time. So much, that you shouldn’t need to be a maid ever again.”

I still couldn’t believe he was genuine with his offer.

“My mother is ill,” I said, unsure if I was pushing my luck or testing the authenticity of his words. “I’m the only one she has, and almost all of my wage goes toward her care. She lives in town, but I visit her as often as I can. I want her to live at the castle while I’m gone, with care from the royal physician.”

“Done.” Prince Ander held out his hand for me to shake.

“And”—I kept my hands firmly in my lap—“I want Larkin to come on the mission too.”

“Who?” He furrowed his brow and pulled his hand back slightly.

“He’s one of your knights.” I resisted the urge to scoff. Some prince he was, he didn’t even know the names of his own knights. “And my best friend.”

“Ah, so that’s where you got the armor from.” He smirked, then nodded. “Fine, Lorken can come too.”

“Larkin,” I corrected him.

“Right, Larkin. So do we have a deal?”

“Not quite.”

He groaned. “What else do you want? A stake in the kingdom? A goose that lays golden eggs?”

“I want to be part of all of it. I don’t just want to help you find this monster. I want to help you kill it too.”

He stared at me. “I’m sorry, but I can’t allow that. It’s much too dangerous.”

“I’m excellent with a bow and arrow, and I ride well. I know how to use a sword, and I spent years hunting with my father in many different lands. I’m not scared. Besides, I won’t be much help to you sitting in some castle on a velvet pillow. I need to be out there in the thick of it—tracking, not just advising.” I crossed my arms. “Either I help you completely or not at all.”

Prince Ander rubbed his forehead. “Are you always this much trouble?”

“So I’ve been told.”

He sighed. “All right. I’ll consider allowing you to come on our expeditions, but”—he held up his hand—“you need to prove to me that you can really do all those things. If at any moment you can’t keep up with the knights, you will take a less active role in this hunt.” He held his hand out again. “So do we have a deal?”

I took his hand and shook it firmly. “Deal.”

Keep reading on March 10th, 2020!




















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