Heather Frost's Blog, page 4
August 13, 2021
Royal Spy Extra: Characters Interview the Author
Note: This post originally hosted by "Purple Shadow Hunter" as part of the Royal Spy blog tour.
Venn: I’m very excited about this. Thanks for taking the time to sit down with us, Heather!
Heather: You’re welcome! I’m actually looking forward to this as well. I've never done anything like this before with my characters.
Venn: We’ll each ask you one question. I’ll go first. Why do you enjoy torturing your characters so much?
Heather: Oh. Wow. Well . . . I mean, I wouldn’t say I enjoy it. I really just write down the story as I discover it. And, you know, conflict sort of drives a story, and it gives depth and purpose to characters and their backstory.
Venn: No need to get defensive, I just wanted to start this session with a deep question. Clare, would you like to go next?
Clare: Yes, thank you. Heather, how did you come up with the idea of writing about a decoy?
Heather: I wanted to write a story with royals, but I wanted a unique perspective. So I thought, “Why not a decoy? And why not have the decoy be forced into it?” Sorry about that, Clare.
Serene: What qualifies you to write about royalty?
Heather: Aside from reading a lot of books and having a vast imagination? Absolutely nothing. Your Highness. *Belated Curtsy*
Venn: I have another question. Can I ask another?
Heather: Uh, sure. You're the moderator.
Venn: I am, aren't I? Who would you choose for a roommate: The Poison Queen, King Henri, or Prince Peter?
Heather: Hilarious, Venn. Well, let’s see . . . Queen Iris gives me the absolute creeps, and she’d poison me. So, no. Henri is pure evil, but so is Peter, and in the end, I feel like Henri is less volatile, so . . . If I had to choose one of them, I’d probably choose Henri. But I would be looking for new lodgings immediately.
Grayson: I think that would be wise.
Bennick: Can I go now, Venn?
Venn: Oh, by all means.
Bennick: Heather, what is--
Heather: Could you actually say that again? I’ve never heard you say my name, and I kind of love it.
Bennick: Um, sure. Heather, what is your favorite type of scene to write?
Heather: That’s a hard one! I enjoy any scene with dialogue. Especially witty banter. But I also love the romantic tension scenes; the fingers brushing, the deep looks, the easing in for a kiss . . . *sigh* Where was I? Oh! I also love writing the AH-HA moments. The scene in which the twist unfolds, and all the foreshadowing clicks into place. Those are super fun.
Mia: As you know, I’m quite artistic. I was just wondering if you are artistic as well?
Heather: I wish! But no. My creative talents lie in writing. Even my doodles are pretty sad looking. You and I both enjoy reading, though, so we have that in common!
Venn: I’ve got another question!
Bennick: Really, Venn?
Venn: *Grins* Heather, who would you pick for your bodyguard?
Heather: Hmm, that’s actually a great question. I think you all have different merits, but if I could only choose one--
Venn: You can’t pick Grayson. He’s a prince, not a bodyguard.
Heather: I was totally going to say Grayson.
Venn: I know. I could see it in your eyes.
Heather: Fine. If not Grayson, then I would pick Bennick.
Venn: But . . . why not me?
Bennick: Venn. Stop.
Venn: Fine. Grayson, do you have a question for Heather?
Grayson: Yes. How do you come up with all your character names? There are far too many people in your head . . .
Heather: I actually love naming characters. Sometimes a name just falls into place (like yours, Grayson) and sometimes I have a sense of the letter that name should start with, or a basic sound, and I start exploring names from there. (That’s what happened with you, Clare.) If I can’t find a name I like, I make one up (Bennick, I’m looking at you). And sometimes I try to take into account the meaning of the name. (Serene, your name is rather ironic, don’t you think?)
Venn: All right, Serjah Desfan.
Serene: Wait, he’s here? Where? I still haven’t met him, and I’m supposed to marry him.
Venn: We’re keeping you separated, to keep the storyline from becoming muddied.
Serene: Oh. That makes sense.
Desfan: My question is simple . . . Why wasn’t I in book one? I could have totally been in book one.
Heather: Actually, in earlier drafts, you were in book one. But the book was too long, and I felt it would be better to delay your entrance into the story. That way, readers could speculate about you and you could make a grand appearance.
Desfan: I suppose that makes sense. Thank you.
Venn: Well, I think that’s everyone. Oh, wait. Wilf! You've been so quiet, I forgot you were here.
Wilf: . . . You said Bennick mandated this.
Venn: I said I asked him to mandate this.
Wilf: . . .
Venn: . . . So. Wilf. Do you have a question for Heather?
Wilf: How many fates-blasted books will there be in this series?
Heather: Six.
Wilf: . . . Wonderful.
Venn: Well, I think that's everyone. Except I do have one last question.
Heather: I'm really not surprised by that.
Venn: If you could live in any of the four kingdoms, which would you choose?
Heather: Hmm…. I love the mountains in Ryden, but I love the culture in Mortise. And they don't have a creepy ruling family. No offense, Grayson.
Grayson: Absolutely none taken.
Heather: Final answer for now: Mortise.
Venn: Thank you again for joining us, Heather!
Heather: It really was my pleasure. Thank you all, and see you in Royal Spy!
Royal Spy - Character Interview: Clare
Note: This interview was originally hosted by "Books Read By Tracy" as part of the Royal Spy Blog Tour.
- What is your full name?
Clare Ellington
- What was it like to have to take care of your brothers by yourself from such a young age?
It was difficult at times. My childhood ended when my parents died, and I had to raise Thomas and Mark. I had Eliot, my older brother, help, until he was old enough to join the city guard. It was a lot of work, and there were days I was just so tired. But taking care of my brothers was also very rewarding. I love them with my whole heart.
- What is your life motto?
Focus on what you can control. Sometimes that might not be much. It might only be your attitude. But if you focus your energy on what you can do, you will feel less overwhelmed and less helpless.
- Who do you love the most in the world?
My family. That includes my brothers, and also the family I’ve made more recently: Bennick, Vera, Venn, and the other guards.
- On a scale of 1 - 10 how much did you freak out when you first kissed Bennick ? ;)
Definitely a 10! It was a complete shock. One moment, we were arguing, and I was feeling so many emotions. And then he grabbed me and we were kissing. It felt like my heart would pound out of my chest. It was exhilarating, beautiful, and perfect.
- What is it like to have guards around you all the time?
It was very strange at first, and a bit uncomfortable to always have people around me. In the beginning, it really felt like they were watching me—almost more like prison guards, as opposed to bodyguards. But as I spent time with them, I came to see them as friends. Sometimes I do long for a moment alone, though.
- What is your favorite hobby when you don't have to do duties?
I’ve always enjoyed cooking, especially for my brothers. I miss doing that. I also love to sew, and seeing all of Serene’s dresses inspire me to make my own designs.
- If you like reading, what is your favorite book?
As a kitchen maid, I didn’t have much time for reading, or great access to books. When I started training as Serene’s decoy, I mostly read histories and anything else my tutor told me to read. I love learning about other kingdoms, so my favorite book so far is probably one I read about Zennor’s jungles. The people who live there, the animals--it’s all so fascinating! . . . Of course, I also found a romantic novel in the library, and I’ve read it a couple of times now J
- What makes you happy?
A day spent with friends and family. That is when I’m happiest.
- What stresses you out the most and how do you deal with it?
What a great question! I feel a lot of stress when there is a last-minute change in plans, especially when I’m acting as the decoy. But I try to take a deep breath and remind myself that I can handle this. That I’ve trained for this. It really goes back to my motto: focus on what you can control.
- What is your greatest fear?
My greatest fear is losing the people I love. My brothers. Bennick. Losing them scares me more than anything that could happen to me personally.
- What is your biggest dream?
My biggest dream is to live away from all the politics and danger that surround me, and to have my brothers with me. And Bennick, of course.
- What is your favorite flower?
I love daisies.
- Who is the person you despise the most?
I think I would have to say King Newlan. I hate that he put me into this position, forced me to become the decoy. I may have found some good things, met some people who have changed my life, but I can’t forget how he blackmailed me into this. I also hate the kind of ruler he is.
Royal Spy - Deleted Scene: Gifts
Author Explanation: This is a fun scene that just can’t seem to make it into a book, haha! I have written two different versions of this scene; one for Royal Decoy, and then this one for Royal Spy. Unfortunately, pacing has been an issue both times, and in the end it had to be cut.
Bennick was in a late night meeting with the Winsel’s guards, so Wilf escorted Clare and Vera to the spare room that had been overrun with gifts. The Winsels said they’d begun arriving a week ago, offerings from nobles eager to send their congratulations on the upcoming marriage and alliance.
Ivonne sat at a desk, apparently jotting down notes about a necklace that sat beside her. She spotted Vera and groaned, dropping the quill at once. “Thank the fates you’re back, my hand is cramped.”
Vera moved to the desk, easily taking over the inventory while Ivonne shook out her fingers.
Clare scanned the room, marveling at all the paintings, boxes, bolts of fabric, and endless jewelry. “How are there so many?” Clare asked.
Ivonne snorted as she lifted a thin, narrow box. “Because there are too many nobles trying to outdo each other.”
“And sometimes themselves,” Venn added. His arm was no longer in a sling, though he still moved gingerly. “I’ve found three gifts alone from Lady Finn. Apparently, each subsequent one was ‘better’.”
“How did you end up here?” Clare asked.
He sighed. “Just eternally lucky, I suppose.”
“Bennick won’t put him on rotation quite yet, so he might as well be useful,” Ivonne told Clare.
Venn’s face broke into a smile. “You think I’m useful?”
Ivonne just rolled her eyes.
Clare approached the pile in the middle of the floor, spotting a stack of what must be rare books, and a trunk that was so decorated with gold, she thought it looked like a pirate’s chest. “I still don’t understand why people would send so much.”
“It’s a royal wedding,” Ivonne said. “But more than that, I think people are worried they might be seen as unsupportive if they don’t give something truly magnificent.” She spoke over her shoulder to Vera. “Another gold necklace, this one with small rubies, from Lord and Lady Bent.”
Vera noted it.
“Sometimes there are amusing gifts,” Venn said. “That helps drive away the monotony.”
Clare reached for a framed painting and found the attached card. “A painting from Lord Tripp. It appears to be a portrait of himself.” She double checked the card. “Done by himself.”
Venn choked out a laugh, dropping the box he’d just lifted. “Let me see!”
Everyone crowded around the less-than-masterfully-done painting, and even Wilf grunted in amusement.
Vera finally set it aside and made a note in the inventory. “That will definitely go to Iden.”
“Can we please include a note that states it should be hung in the entrance hall?” Venn begged. “Please?”
Clare returned to the pile and Wilf moved to the far corner of the room to sort through some cards that had been separated from their packages.
Ivonne found the next strange yet hilarious gift—a beloved dog’s ashes. “To sprinkle in the ocean and know that a beloved soul of Devendra is with you,” Ivonne read from the card, her eyes wide in disbelief. “Why? Why would anyone think their dog’s ashes would make a good wedding gift?”
“Nobles are insane,” Venn said. “Haven’t you noticed?”
Royal Spy - Deleted Scene: The Letter
Author Explanation: This was the first scene I ever wrote with Desfan, Serene’s betrothed. It originally fit into my first draft of Royal Decoy, but I decided to save Desfan’s POV for Royal Spy. Once I sat down to work on his chapters, I realized this wasn’t the best place for us to start Desfan’s story, and so this scene was cut.
Serjah Desfan Saernon Cassian, heir to the throne and current regent of Mortise, scrubbed the heels of his hands against his temples, dreading the fact that he had to leave his room today. If only he could crawl back into bed without the servants spreading rumors. If only he didn’t have a full court to address today. If only he was back on his ship.
His father’s council was most likely already assembled, waiting on him—simmering with anger, he had no doubt. By now they must have learned the latest thing he’d done without their approval. If he weren’t the serjah, they’d probably demand his head.
Desfan scowled at the parchment laid out before him. It was probably his fifteenth attempt to write a letter he simply did not know how to write. He read the lines again, wincing at how stiff the words were.
Princess Serene Aren Demoi,
I trust you are well. I hope our upcoming betrothal is as anticipated by you as it is by me. I look forward to meeting you when you make your journey to Mortise. Your father has assured me that you are excited to see the ocean.
Desfan muttered a curse and rolled his shoulders. The letters were getting worse. He should have given up two weeks ago, since there was no way she would ever receive it before leaving Iden. He could send it to one of the places along her journey route, in care of a Devendran or Mortisian nobleman. But what was the use? He had nothing to say to this stranger he was going to marry.
Desfan lifted his quill, dipped it, and wrote with much less precisian than before.
You are a perfect stranger to me, and I fear that will never change. I hear stories about you. Your beauty, your renowned diplomacy, and frankly, I’m terrified.
He stared at that last word. It made his stomach lurch, because it was true. He was terrified.
He continued to write.
I don’t know what your laugh sounds like. I don’t know if I’ll be able to stand the sound of it. I don’t know what you think of me, or this alliance. These are things I won’t know until it’s too late. Until we are officially betrothed. And the only comfort I have is that there is a chance, a very small chance, that one day I will care for you. That is more than I can say about those who surround me now.
He tossed the quill aside. He did not bother to re-read these lines. They had been an indulgence, and he could not afford indulgences. Not among his father’s court, who sniffed for any reason to expel him from the governance of Mortise.
Desfan burned the letter using the small flame in a wall lamp and retrieved his gold crown.
He was needed in the throne room, whether he was ready or not.
July 16, 2021
July's FAQs
I’ve been getting some FAQ, so I thought I’d answer the most common ones here.
Will there be a paperback version of Royal Spy?
Yes! Soon. I’m sorry I don’t have a specific date, but it is coming! And it will include a short story, The Decoy and the Bodyguard, which was a pre-order incentive for Royal Spy. The short story is in Bennick’s POV, and follows his first day with Clare. (You know, that carriage attack and the brawl in the tavern? Not to mention the part where Bennick lies about his name...) It's super fun to get a glimpse into what he was thinking during those scenes!
When is Royal Captive (Fate of Eyrinthia 3) coming out?
Early 2022. (But not January 1st, sorry. I appreciate you guys asking, though!)
Have you no heart??? That cliffhanger in Royal Spy!!!
I do have a heart, and I’m sorry for breaking yours with that cliffhanger! But I promise, book three will be worth the wait. And you will have Fire & Ash to hold you over. Consider it my peace offering!
What is Fire & Ash?
Fire & Ash is a prequel novella about Desfan, the heir to the Mortisian throne, and all-around fan favorite. He’s such a fun character, and his novella just sort of fell into my head. More details are coming soon, but it is set years before Royal Decoy (it starts on Desfan's fifteenth birthday, actually) and you will get to see him meet Karim, his best friend and bodyguard. I’m super excited to share this story with you!
When does Fire & Ash come out?
October 28th (my birthday, in fact!) and you can preorder the Kindle version here: ,https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098SJYHW2?ref
There will be a paperback version as well, it just won’t be available for preorder.
How long is a novella? Fire & Ash, specifically?
Novellas are short novels, anywhere from 100-200 pages. Fire & Ash is approximately 150 pages, but that number will probably grow in the editing stage and when it gets formatted into a printed version.
How many books are going to be in the Fate of Eyrinthia series?
Six. That does not count novellas. (And yes, that wasn’t a typo. I said novellas :D)
Are you working on any other books?
Yes, I have a few other series in the works, and I hope to share more specifics soon!
Thank you so much for reading my books! I truly appreciate the love, the reviews, the messages, and the social media shout-outs. You all are awesome!! And now, I'm going to get back to writing :)
Did your questions get asked, or are you wondering about something else? Let me know in the comments!
May 18, 2021
Blog Tour Stop - Excerpt from Royal Spy
I'm hosting a stop today on the blog tour, and I'm excited to share this excerpt with you! There are actually three excerpts going live today, and while you can read them separately, if you read them in the following order, you'll get a look at a larger scene!
I've got part 1
Singing Librarian Books has part 2: https://singinglibrarianbooks.com
Wishful Endings has part 3: https://www.wishfulendings.com/2021/05/read-excerpt-from-this-new-ya-fantasy.html
Enjoy!
EXCERPT: Warehouse Raid Part 1
Desfan crouched lower to the ground as he picked his way to the back end of the alley. The smell of refuse, rotten food, and worse burned his nose, and he tried not to think about the puddles lapping the sides of his boots. That briny scent definitely wasn’t seawater.
He was glad the weak light of the moon didn’t reveal much; he didn’t want a close look at what hid in the shadows of this forgotten alley.
He reached the corner and raised a closed fist. The silver light was dim, but the men behind him halted at once and followed his lead as he pressed his shoulders against the stone wall of the warehouse. A breeze swept up from the harbor, delivering a breath of fresh, salty air. He closed his eyes and could almost imagine he was back on his ship.
Adrenaline pumped through his veins, and his grin was unstoppable.
He only felt a little guilty that he hadn’t woken Karim, but his bodyguard had become even more protective of Desfan since he’d been named regent. He was a year older than Desfan, and had been his bodyguard since Desfan was fifteen. There was no way Karim would have allowed him to join this middle-of-the-night excursion. But Desfan refused to miss it. Not when he was so desperate to do something.
He strained his ears and, after a moment, determined there were at least two guards on the warehouse door. They weren’t speaking, but one shuffled his feet restlessly, and one a little further away kept clearing his throat.
Desfan lifted two fingers. From his periphery, he saw the nearest soldier nod.
His pulse thrummed with a fast tempo he loved. Danger, adventure, risk—he needed this.
With a flick of his brown fingers, Desfan sparked the attack. He was the first to round the corner, simultaneously drawing the two swords sheathed across his back. The twin blades cut through the air as he shifted his grip on the leather-wrapped hilts.
The two guards at the door were startled by the sudden appearance of the city guard and reacted too slowly. Desfan’s swords tapped both their throats, stopping their shouts.
He smiled. “Keep quiet, and you can keep your heads.”
The man on the left gulped.
“How many men are inside?” Desfan asked, his voice low.
The one on the right stammered. “I—I don’t know.”
“Hm. How disappointing.” Desfan shifted his blade, increasing the pressure until a drop of blood appeared.
The man hissed. “Six. There are six men inside.”
“Excellent.” He eased back and one of the soldiers moved to take his place. “As long as they don’t fight, they live,” Desfan said.
Kiv Arcas arrived at his side. “Perhaps you should stay back during the initial sweep, Serjah.”
He shot the man a grin, lightly swinging his dual blades. “Where’s the fun in that?” He used his shoulder to shove open the door to the warehouse and the city guard poured in with him.
A warning shout went up and the cluster of men in the warehouse scrambled for weapons. The lamps hanging on hooks revealed that there were far more than six smugglers. Desfan’s glance placed the count closer to twenty, which would make this a more even match.
Perfect.
..........................................................................
Return to Eyrinthia on May 20th!
A DECOY recruited to be a spy.
A PRINCE compelled to become an assassin.
A SERJAH pressured by an unwanted crown.
A WORLD covered in shadows.
Mere months ago, Clare was just a kitchen maid. Now, she is a decoy for Princess Serene and a novice spy, caught in the royal family's web of secrets. While journeying to Mortise to finalize the princess’s betrothal to Serjah Desfan, Clare lives for the stolen moments she has with Bennick, the bodyguard who is quickly claiming her heart. But when a notorious assassin is hired to kill her, Clare’s life and the alliance hang in the balance.
In Ryden, Grayson prepares to leave for Mortise with his brother, Liam. Their orders are to ignite a war between their enemies, and Grayson has been tasked with assassinating Princess Serene. It may cost his soul, but he is ready to comply, as long as he gets something in return: freedom for Mia, the girl he loves. But the more time he spends with his brother, the more he begins to wonder if Liam is what Grayson wishes he had the courage to be . . . a traitor.
Desfan feels trapped. By his disapproving council, his impending marriage to a stranger, and the imminent arrival of enemy princes who may not want the peace they profess. When a dangerous drug threatens his people, Desfan jumps at the chance to rely on his swords instead of politics. But his investigation uncovers more than he bargained for--a plot that may destroy Mortise from within.
Eyrinthia hovers on the edge of war. Spies. Rebels. Traitors. All must choose a side.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pre-order Royal Spy:
Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08Y8C69P6?ref
Amazon Hardcover: https://www.amazon.com/Royal-Fate-Eyrinthia-Heather-Frost/dp/1734891920/ref
B&N Hardcover: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/royal-spy-heather-frost/1139305244
Pre-order Gift Form: https://forms.gle/j2pzc8jEDmpqmzdY6
Add Royal Spy:
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57356500-royal-spy
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/books/royal-spy-fate-of-eyrinthia-book-2-by-heather-frost
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PRE-ORDER GIFT DETAILS
Pre-order Royal Spy and get an EXCLUSIVE short story from Bennick's POV!
*****
Bennick is a royal bodyguard, prepared for anything—except Clare Ellington.
THE DECOY AND THE BODYGUARD follows Bennick and Clare during their first day together, but from Bennick’s POV.
Of course, things go terribly wrong . . .
*****
It's easy! Just preorder the book, take a screenshot with proof of your order, and fill out the form (link above) and the short story will be emailed to you after Royal Spy releases!
And don't miss the rest of the blog tour!
May 10, 2021
Royal Spy Blog Tour Schedule
Royal Spy (Fate of Eyrinthia #2) comes out on May 20th, and to celebrate the release we have a whole week of fun content for you! The blog tour starts on May 13th and runs through the 20th, and you can find the schedule and links to all the stops below. I hope you'll check out all the awesome stops!
And don't forget to preorder Royal Spy so you can claim your EXCLUSIVE gift! (Details and links below.)
BLOG TOUR LINKS
May 13
A Bella Fairytale - Book Review: www.abellafairytale.wordpress.com
Bookish Travelings - Book Review & Deleted Scene: www.instagram.com/bookishtravelings
Crossroad Reviews - Book Review: www.crossroadreviews.com
May 14
Lala's Book Reviews - Book Review & Excerpt: www.laurenbodiford123.wordpress.com
Mundie Moms - Excerpt: www.mundiemoms.com
Purple Shadow Hunter - Book Review & Author Guest Post: www.purpleshadowhunter.blogspot.com
May 15
Michelle Book Briefs - Book Review & Deleted Scene: www.bookbriefs.net
Min Reads and Reviews - Book Review & Excerpt: http://minreadsandreviews.blogspot.com
The Nature of Pages - Book Review & Excerpt: www.thenatureofpages.wordpress.com
May 16
Kameo Monson - Author Interview: http://kameomonson.com
A Midsummers Night Read - Book Review: www.instagram.com/a_midsummers_night_reads
Why Not Because I Said So - Book Review & Excerpt: www.whynotbecauseisaidso.blogspot.com
May 17
Books Over Everything - Book Review: https://booksovereverything.com
Books Read By Tracy - Book Review & Character Interviews: www.booksreadbytracy.com
Dini Panda Reads - Book Review & Excerpt: https://dinipandareads.home.blog/
Stars Books and Tea - Book Review: https://starsbooksandtea.com
May 18
Lisa Is A Bookworm - Book Review & Excerpt: http://lisaisabookworm.blogspot.com
The Reading Pantry - Book Review & Guest Post: www.instagram.com/the_reading_pantry
Singing Librarian Books - Book Review & Excerpt: https://singinglibrarianbooks.com
Wishful Endings - Excerpt: https://www.wishfulendings.com
May 19
Darkest Sins - Character Interview: https://darkestsinsblog.com
Literary Time Out: Andrea - Book Review: www.literarytimeout.blogspot.com
Literary Time Out: Rorie - Book Review & Excerpt: www.literarytimeout.blogspot.com
Reading Nook - Excerpt: https://readingnook84.wordpress.com
Kait Plus Books - Excerpt: https://www.kaitgoodwin.com/books/
May 20
A Court of Coffee and Books - Book Review & Deleted Scene: www.acourtofcoffeeandbooks.com
Getting Your Read On - Book Review & Excerpt: www.gettingyourreadonaimeebrown.blogspot.com
Life of Deekay - Book Review & Deleted Scene: https://lifeofdeekay.com
Thind Books - Book Review: https://thindbooks.wordpress.com
What Makes Patri - Author Interview: https://whatmakespatri.blogspot.com
A huge thank you to all the bloggers and reviewers
who participated and made this tour possible!
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Return to Eyrinthia on May 20th!
A DECOY recruited to be a spy.
A PRINCE compelled to become an assassin.
A SERJAH pressured by an unwanted crown.
A WORLD covered in shadows.
Mere months ago, Clare was just a kitchen maid. Now, she is a decoy for Princess Serene and a novice spy, caught in the royal family's web of secrets. While journeying to Mortise to finalize the princess’s betrothal to Serjah Desfan, Clare lives for the stolen moments she has with Bennick, the bodyguard who is quickly claiming her heart. But when a notorious assassin is hired to kill her, Clare’s life and the alliance hang in the balance.
In Ryden, Grayson prepares to leave for Mortise with his brother, Liam. Their orders are to ignite a war between their enemies, and Grayson has been tasked with assassinating Princess Serene. It may cost his soul, but he is ready to comply, as long as he gets something in return: freedom for Mia, the girl he loves. But the more time he spends with his brother, the more he begins to wonder if Liam is what Grayson wishes he had the courage to be . . . a traitor.
Desfan feels trapped. By his disapproving council, his impending marriage to a stranger, and the imminent arrival of enemy princes who may not want the peace they profess. When a dangerous drug threatens his people, Desfan jumps at the chance to rely on his swords instead of politics. But his investigation uncovers more than he bargained for--a plot that may destroy Mortise from within.
Eyrinthia hovers on the edge of war. Spies. Rebels. Traitors. All must choose a side.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pre-order Royal Spy:
Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08Y8C69P6?ref
Amazon Hardcover: https://www.amazon.com/Royal-Fate-Eyrinthia-Heather-Frost/dp/1734891920/ref
B&N Hardcover: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/royal-spy-heather-frost/1139305244
Pre-order Gift Form: https://forms.gle/j2pzc8jEDmpqmzdY6
Add Royal Spy:
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57356500-royal-spy
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/books/royal-spy-fate-of-eyrinthia-book-2-by-heather-frost
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PRE-ORDER GIFT DETAILS
Pre-order Royal Spy and get an EXCLUSIVE short story from Bennick's POV!
*****
Bennick is a royal bodyguard, prepared for anything—except Clare Ellington.
THE DECOY AND THE BODYGUARD follows Bennick and Clare during their first day together, but from Bennick’s POV.
Of course, things go terribly wrong . . .
*****
It's easy! Just preorder the book, take a screenshot with proof of your order, and fill out the form (link above) and the short story will be emailed to you after Royal Spy releases!
March 18, 2021
ROYAL SPY Cover Reveal
Are you ready to return to Eyrinthia?
I'm excited to share the cover and blurb for Royal Spy (Fate of Eyrinthia #2), along with some trivia about the cover!
A DECOY recruited to be a spy.
A PRINCE compelled to become an assassin.
A SERJAH pressured by an unwanted crown.
A WORLD covered in shadows.
Mere months ago, Clare was just a kitchen maid. Now, she is a decoy for Princess Serene and a novice spy, caught in the royal family's web of secrets. While journeying to Mortise to finalize the princess’s betrothal to Serjah Desfan, Clare lives for the stolen moments she has with Bennick, the bodyguard who is quickly claiming her heart. But when a notorious assassin is hired to kill her, Clare’s life and the alliance hang in the balance.
In Ryden, Grayson prepares to leave for Mortise with his brother, Liam. Their orders are to ignite a war between their enemies, and Grayson has been tasked with assassinating Princess Serene. It may cost his soul, but he is ready to comply, as long as he gets something in return: freedom for Mia, the girl he loves. But the more time he spends with his brother, the more he begins to wonder if Liam is what Grayson wishes he had the courage to be . . . a traitor.
Desfan feels trapped. By his disapproving council, his impending marriage to a stranger, and the imminent arrival of enemy princes who may not want the peace they profess. When a dangerous drug threatens his people, Desfan jumps at the chance to rely on his swords instead of politics. But his investigation uncovers more than he bargained for—a plot that may destroy Mortise from within.
Eyrinthia hovers on the edge of war. Spies. Rebels. Traitors. All must choose a side.
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Isn't the cover gorgeous? Many thanks to the extremely talented K. M. Frost for her brilliant design! (Yes, she is my sister as well as a designer, author, and a million other things!)
There are so many things I love about this cover, but here are some fun facts:
I knew I wanted this cover to feature Desfan, since we get into his head in Royal Spy. When we first started looking at models, I wasn't really loving the options--until I spotted him. Why? BECAUSE HE IS DESFAN! Let me explain. When I write, I find images for all my main characters (and some secondary ones) because it helps me get a feel for them and I'm able to describe them better. This model is the SAME model I found for Desfan years ago. So, literally, as my sister was scrolling through options, we saw him and both went: "It's Desfan!" The castle is actually a real castle I visited in 2019. It's located in Trieste, Italy. Some photoshopping liberties were taken to make it more of a Mortisian sandstone, though :) Desfan is a prince (excuse me, serjah) but I didn't want him to have a crown on the cover, because he doesn't want to rule. The red clothing gives him a more royal look, but you'll notice he still has his dual swords, LOL. I'm so excited for you to meet him! (Also, notice the black ring. I won't tell you why, but once you read the book, you'll know :)ROYAL SPY comes out May 20th!
Pre-order the Kindle version of ROYAL SPY here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08Y8C69P6?ref
***Hardcover edition pre-order will be coming soon!***
If you pre-order the book, be sure to fill out this form so you can get an EXCLUSIVE short story from Bennick's POV: https://forms.gle/j2pzc8jEDmpqmzdY6
Bennick is a royal bodyguard, prepared for anything--except Clare Ellington. THE DECOY AND THE BODYGUARD is a scene from ROYAL DECOY in Bennick's POV, which follows their first day together. Of course, things go terribly wrong . . .
This exclusive short story will be emailed to you after ROYAL SPY releases on May 20th. Thank you for pre-ordering!
September 9, 2020
Your Questions Answered
This post will be short, but I wanted to answer some of the top questions I'm getting asked right now. And, because it's me, there are probably too many gifs involved.
PS. I avoided answering any questions that might give major spoilers for Royal Decoy, just in case you haven't read it yet. But since you probably wouldn't be reading this if you hadn't read Royal Decoy, it's probably overkill. Oh well.
Q: When is book 2 (Royal Spy) coming out?
A: Spring 2021. A specific date will be announced in due time :)
Q: How many books are going to be in the series?
A: Six.
Q: If Clare looks so much like the princess, why don't other people see it when she's dressed like the maid?
A: Clark Kent.
...Seriously, that's my answer. The resemblance is obvious, but people see what they expect to see, and details make a difference.
Clare worked in the castle for years without anyone noticing the resemblance, because the people she associated with didn't move in the circles the princess did. All it took was one person taking one longer look, and the connection was made. Then details to alter her appearance happened, and now people see the princess because that's what they expect to see. When she's dressed as a maid, they see a maid--because that's what they expect to see.
Q: How did you create Bennick? I love him!
A: I'm glad you love him! I do, too. Discovering Bennick was super fun, and I love how he plays out on the page. He is good. Kind. Fierce. Attractive. I was very happy to share him.
As for how I came up with him, Bennick really took shape when I knew I wanted the captain of the princess's bodyguards to be a younger soldier. The moment I had that thought, I could see his crystal-blue eyes, stubbled jaw, and that charming half-grin. He told me he was going to fall in love with Clare, and I was totally on board with that!
Q: When will Clare and Grayson meet?
A: Due to spoiler potential, I'm going to skip this one :)
Q: Is Desfan a good person? Will we meet him in book two?
A: You will meet Desfan in book two and I'm excited for that moment. Now, is the prince of Mortise a good person? .... Spoilers :)
Q: I don't know if I believe what King Henri said about Mia.
A: I know that wasn't phrased as a question, but I am getting a lot of questions and speculation about Mia, all variations of the above statement. I'll refrain from giving an answer and let you keep reading.
Q: Are you working on any other books, or just Royal Spy?
A: I do have other books in the works, including a trilogy I'm super excited about and you will be learning more soon.
Thanks for reading! And I appreciate you sharing Royal Decoy with your friends. I feel like I usually find my favorite books through friend recommendations, so keep spreading the word!
July 22, 2020
Map of Eyrinthia
Hi all! I thought it would be fun to share the map of Eyrinthia!
This was designed by my incredibly talented brother, Kevin Frost. I brought him some (horrible) sketches, gave him notes on the terrains of the different areas, and he created this!
I love a good map, because it makes the world even more concrete. This is true in my writing, and in the books I read. Thanks for making such a great map, Kevin!
In Royal Decoy, we really don't get too see very much of Eyrinthia. Clare is in Devendra, Grayson is in Ryden, and that's really all we get. So I'm excited for Royal Spy, because I'll get to show you so much more of the world--including Mortise, which is my favorite kingdom. I love the beaches, the culture . . . and, OK, it might have something to do with a certain prince who lives there . . .
But I probably shouldn't talk about him just yet . . . So I won't.
I can keep secrets : )
Where's your dream home? In the mountains? On the beach? Tell me in the comments!
