Book Two of the Cardinal Kingdom Series.
Valerie Harlow has survived until summer, against all odds. Now, she's found herself in a uniquely precarious situation. She either commits total loyalty to the rulers of the West Court or she speaks out about what actually happened to her and risks becoming another victim of the Unseelie Rebellion without the West's protection.
Good thing another handsome prince from another court comes along to offer her an alternative: pretend to be his private escort and -- in the process -- get her revenge on those that wronged her.
The choice may seem simple. But every action has a consequence. And every consequence could get someone killed... again. Valerie must learn to navigate an increasingly treacherous world of bargains, debts, and misinformation as she ventures beyond the castle walls in the West, before she loses everything she swore to protect.
Oh, and don't forget about the fairy fruit! Valerie certainly can't.