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

by L.J. Andrews

“When you see the beast within, let him in to let him go.”

I had seen enough romantic couples to know love was possible. I wanted to be loved like that, but knew it was too rare to hope for.

“This is my refuge. Books are my windows to another world, another life.

“I don’t speak for Elise. She has her own voice.” By the gods, the man knew how to set my pulse aflame.

“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.”

“I ask how I am to give you to some fool because I do not know how. How am I to accomplish anything I set out to do here when my heart burns to have you for myself?”

I’d seen the bloodlust in the Wraith’s eyes. Red, glowing, inhuman. This look was different. Black, simmering rage. The look of a mortal man defending what was his with his life.

The strength of his grip curled villainously around the weight of the iron.

“I would not dream of denying you anything, Kvinna. I’ve no doubt you’d be terrifying should I try.”

“I may know my name, but I have yet to question for whom my heart beats.”