Twin Crowns (Twin Crowns, #1)

by Catherine Doyle

“When you break open the stone heart of Anadawn Palace and seize your rightful place on its throne, all the winds of Eana will sing your name. May the courage of the witches go with you, my little bird.”

“My mother was a reformed witch,” she said, practically hissing the word. “She gave up her magic to be with my father. But the witches couldn’t forgive her. That’s why they killed her.” Shen curled his lip as he stood. “And then your soldiers killed thousands of innocent witches.” “There is no such thing as an innocent witch.” He folded his arms. “I would wager there’s no such thing as a reformed witch.” “You have nothing to wager but your arrogance. You may keep it,” snapped Rose.

Shen looked at her hand in his. “I was lucky Banba found me. She took me back to Ortha, and they welcomed me. I’ve never had to want for anything here. They’re not the people of my past, but they’re my family now.” He gave her an uncharacteristically serious look. “They can be your family, too, Rose.” To that, she said nothing.