A mother conceals her child from the powerful mage who fathered her while serving as his aide.
Jory Applewhite fled seven years ago to shield Thorn Ashburne and the realm, raising their daughter Poppy in secrecy at a frontier citadel. Now Thorn returns as the newly appointed Mage-Commander and forces Jory into service as his personal aide. A magical brand flares at every contact, threatening to expose the truth. Orc armies gather beyond the walls while Thorn's jealous fiancée watches their every move, tightening the circle around Jory's hidden child.
Markers
- 1Secret child revealed
- 2Magic marks lovers
- 3Orc siege looms
Audience
Audiences who want hidden-identity tension woven into high-stakes fantasy romance will stay hooked.









