Near a year after Edward's betrayal, his former fiancee, Antoinette, is engaged to her childhood friend, Emmerich. Hoping to finally find happiness by escaping a marriage to conniving Prince Arnold, the two plan a secret elopement, knowing their union will meet with disapproval...and scandal...if caught. Meanwhile, Edward begins his new life as the king of Audlin. Different from his father, Edward finds himself needing to be clever to counteract his wife's growing popularity with the nobility, but will his actions secure his reign or play into Malina's plans for his demise? Lies. Deceit. Acceptance. Betrayal. Many seek hope after so much loss, but will the actions of the past determine the fate of the future? Or can love and loyalty keep their dreams from breaking? This book is intended for mature audiences only."