Curse of Shadows and Thorns (The Broken Kingdoms, #1)

by L.J. Andrews

“A good heart,” her soft voice flowed from behind the veil. I was certain now, she was young. “Interesting.” “Excuse me?” I’d heard rumors of Zyben’s interest in seers and witches. Not exactly Night Folk, but if books were to be believed, more than fae carried fury in their blood. “Your heart does not live here,” she whispered. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” “There isn’t much time.” A desperate plea was buried underneath the soft hum of her voice. Pulse racing, palms sweaty, I bent closer. “Don’t fear the past, trust those undeserving of it⁠—”

“A troubled heart,” she said. The room went silent. The girl stepped closer. “Release the past and trust those undeserving of it.”

“What your heart desires, there your fate lies.” She lowered her voice to a rough whisper. “When you see the beast within, let him in to let him go. Only then will he bring the change you seek.”

The girl didn’t budge, not even a flinch ruffled her veil. “This path is not written in stone. It must be chosen.”