Desert Rose

For generations, the Manalal have warred against the wildlings—monstrous half-people polluted by Fire magic—putting all to slaughter by command of their proud and merciless king. His daughter Princess Shirasa, blessed with the magical ability to witch water, wants nothing more than to tame the inhospitable desert, to build new wells and new sanctuaries for her people. But she is not meant for adventure, for she is promised to one of her father’s vicious warlords.

When she nearly dies along the border, her life becomes intertwined with the wildling noble Amraak, a warrior true to the Fire in his blood. A man of vision, Amraak sees in Shirasa not only talent and beauty, but destiny.

But even as they fall for each other, the rift between their peoples drives them apart. Caught between duty to her people and the irresistible draw of her heart, Shirasa must find a way to establish peace, before the desert she loves is bathed in blood.

This stand-alone fantasy romance occurs parallel to Liberation, and can be read before or after. The recommended reading order is after Sundering.

Content Warnings: Racism and bigotry, slavery, war violence, torture, sexism, physical abuse, arranged marriage, consensual sex, mention of rape and sexual abuse

Spice Level: 🌶️.5
There are two open-door scenes, both focused on the emotion and meaning of relationship between two people.

Publication July 17, 2024 via Kickstarter only!