Phaelenx by E.A. James

Selene Covendane has always longed for more…

Flighty and tempestuous, she’s rejected not one, but three royal suitors. Rather than sit inside and practice magic as Zhekan ladies are expected to do, Selene would rather sneak out of the royal compound and listen to the songs of traveling bards. Their tales of adventure and romance are much more exciting than anything she can imagine. But one night, when she sneaks out of the castle, she meets a man who will change her life forever.

Phaelenx Cobbler is a champion Zhekan warrior. The strongest and biggest of them all, fighting is a game to him. While other men would brag, Phaelenx only takes it in stride. He’s used to it all – the cheering girls, the envious other men. When he meets Selene, a hot-headed royal cousin, Phaelenx doesn’t quite know what to think. She’s unlike any other woman he’s ever met. Yet, despite their differences, the two have quite a bit in common…including deep suspicions of Zheka’s security.

And when a devastating announcement is made, Selene and Phaelenx know they have to work together to save their country. Will they succeed, and realize their affection for one another?Or will everyone – including their lives – be destroyed in the process?