Adelaide Saville never wanted the crown, nor the betrothal that came with it. 

Sixteen seasons ago, she was Everest’s least notable royal; now, after the massacre that left her brother dead and the man she loved nowhere to be found, Adelaide is set wed Prince Francis Casady of Grimmire and become the first Queen of Atavus.

After learning that the Everian people believe she’s going to let Francis take control of their kingdom, Adelaide decides to return home and prove them wrong. But fate has other plans, and when her journey goes awry, she finds herself face to face with the man who abandoned her.

Adonis Dethridge never wanted to leave the woman he loved. 

But after his cowardice cost her everything, it was the only way he could begin to make things right. Even after bringing to justice the dissenters responsible for the massacre that left his parents, Prince Theo, and dozens of others dead, Adonis is still haunted by his past—and by the love he still harbors for Everest’s crown princess.

When their destinies intertwine once more, both Adelaide and Adonis realize that no matter how deep one buries their past, some feelings never die. Beyond that lies an even harsher truth: that their budding love might be trampled once more, for Adelaide must wed Francis, or the realm will descend into war.

The Duty of an Heir is part of a planned trilogy, with books 2 and 3 set to release in December 2026 and summer 2027.