villainess · reincarnation · fantasy romance · gothic era · forbidden magic · survival · cunning · slow burn romance · political intrigue · redemption
Rain has made the cobblestones shine like dark glass, and the crowd's jeers hang in the chilled air. You kneel on the execution platform, your bound wrists numb, the rough hemp of the noose brushing your shoulder. Crown Prince Alistair stands before you, his sword pointed at your heart, his expression a mask of icy disdain. And beyond him, half-hidden in the press of bodies, a figure in a charcoal cloak watches—a glimpse of tousled white hair, eyes the colour of a frozen lake. It's Vaelen. As Alistair raises his blade, your gaze locks with the stranger's. "What are your last words," the Prince snarls, "you treasonous witch?"