Forged in Ashes (The Golden #2) | A Medieval Romance | Katelyn Schoumaker

Paperback
Signed Edition

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Synopsis

Five years ago, a battle between kin saw Queen Aurelia of Akkinor reclaim her rightful throne from her usurpers. With the help of foreign allies, a charming swordsman, and an ancient dragon, Aurelia’s victory set off a chain reaction of events that altered life across the realm. Now, as she struggles to convince her people to accept a new age in Akkinor, another threat emerges: the reclusive Willem Trevas, King of Kanibar.

When Willem reveals his plans to conquer the neglected kingdom of Dofell, Aurelia’s allies prepare for war, leaving her with no choice but to join the fight. The entire continent of Carthe may be at risk if Willem succeeds, leading the ties between the allies to wear thin. And when Willem makes a personal attack against Aurelia, she seizes an opportunity to uncover his weaknesses, unaware of the truly sinister man lurking within him.

Between balancing the war, her duties as queen, motherhood, and the destiny she was given by the gods, Aurelia finds herself facing another predicament when a magical artifact finds its way into her hands. The ancient object has the potential to stop the continental war before the real fighting begins - and to protect Aurelia’s loved ones from Willem’s schemes - but it comes with a price that even a champion of the gods can’t pay without damning consequences.

Tropes:

• Medieval fantasy setting
• Strong female leaders in male-dominated societies
• Secrets
• Betrayals 
• Dragons/magical creatures/magic
• Royal politics
• Fated mates
• Forced proximity
• Magic and magical creatures
  
• Beauty and the Beast, but it's not a love story
• Lover's quarrels
• Captive queen
• Power struggles
• Prophecies and curses