From debut author Astiné Truong, comes the first instalment in a gripping, slow-burn, passionate fantasy romance series filled with magic, mythology, plot twists, betrayal and heartbreak. Perfect for those who want some romance with action in between. ‘I would have done anything to save you if you had told me, but not this.’ Illustria Aeven, Princess of Telathia and leader of Dóiteán City looks like an ordinary loveable Royal with discerning beauty, but she is known far and wide in the Kingdom for the power that runs in her veins. The inferno that has won centuries upon centuries of war with the Daemon Souls. She is no sweet Royal Sovereign, but a woman blessed by the Gods with the ability to destroy anyone who stands in her way. Matius Ralomenor, General of Telathia, protector to the King is icy, merciless, and stone-like to those he doesn’t care about. He has led assassins and guards to protect his King and the Kingdom, his blade an extension of his arm. His father before him had led armies to their deaths to protect the land against the Daemons. When the Princess and the General first meet, it isn’t an introduction they would ever forget. Matius’ dislike for Illustria amuses her, as he becomes someone she can distract herself with while she visits the Capital City, Rì. The General has been tasked to protect the Princess during her visit, but the more he is around her, the further she irritates him; something familiar about her. During her first week of staying in Rì, the General is gravely injured, putting his life on the line for hers, something she isn’t used to, often doing this for others. Illustria begins to develop a fondness for the young General and he her as their time together continues. When a ball held for the commemoration of the late Queen turns into a blood bath, Matius and Illustria have to fight their way to refuge, unable to use her magic, they rely on their abilities with a sword. Once to safety, Illustria’s coronation is to be planned, but tensions are high in the cities after the attack, and affection between the General and the Princess starts to change as secrets begin to surface. The Queen to be holds a secret so dark it might very well destroy those she cares for as well as the Kingdom she so desperately seeks to protect. Matius continues to fight the darkness that lured him in centuries ago and makes a decision he may never be able to take back. Daemon Souls begin to rise up and attacks are more frequent. Who will come out of this unharmed both physically and emotionally? This is a slow burn and is recommended for mature audiences only.