"Against her will. Torn by her heart. Bound by the Hinterlands." Burdened by a controlling and abusive father, Cressida has only ever had one dream: to make her own way in the world and forge a new life on her own merit. But her life in Bolingbay was never hers to rule. And the moment she felt the sweet whisper of freedom, it was just as swiftly ripped away. Having not been blessed with talent or beauty, Cressida is caught off-guard by her abrupt and shocking arranged marriage to the handsome, silver-haired Baron Caravahl Alzeid. Frustrated at being bartered like an object, Cressida begrudgingly accepts her fate as she journeys toward the Hinterlands, the land of the outcasts - and her new home. Upon her arrival, things begin to feel amiss. Unexpected guests cause panic and turmoil; and there is a darkness to the nearby forest that never seems to wane - a sinister mystery shrouded in secrecy and silence. Still, she can't help but fall in love with the land and the people despite the threats lurking around every corner. And the more time she spends with her infuriating new husband, the more difficult it is to resist the pull of temptation. But when everything begins spiraling out of control, Cressida finds herself in more danger than ever. And to save her from darkness, Caravahl will have to risk it all… his life, his kingdom, and his heart.