I’m excited to host a stop on the virtual tour for Sun and Blood (Sentinel Rising #1) by Crystal Frost. (Yes, Frost—she’s my sis-in-law!) I’m going to be interviewing Crystal, but first, here’s the blurb for Sun and Blood, which is the first book in a brand new YA paranormal romance series!

In a world of wolven, being average can get you killed.

 Without a wolf spirit of her own, Violet Draven is basically a souped-up human and an easy target. When her twin brother Jax makes enemies with the future alpha from a neighboring clan, she tries to stop him. A concussion sends her to the Sentinel Clan's doctor where the results of her recent tests reveal more than she bargained for. Determined to prove her worth, Violet trains with the best in the clan, but she's still considered a liability. To protect her, Jax orders his best friend to guard Violet, making the fight against her forbidden feelings for her new bodyguard even harder to hide.

 Meanwhile, retaining control over his wolf is vital if Patrick Cowen is going to keep his past a secret. After losing his family more than three years ago, Patrick found a home in Sentinel Clan and worries about what will happen if anyone gets too close to him. Holding everyone at arms-length is the only way he knows how to protect his new family, but his eighteenth birthday, and first shift, draw near, testing his tenuous control. His combative wolf spirit won't go down without a fight and if Patrick fails, everything he cares for will be lost. Driven by blood lust and the desire for power; rogue, red-eyed wolven begin attacking the clans. Their savagery knows no bounds. They have only one rule.

Submit or die.

About The Author:

Crystal Frost is a transplant, and current resident, to the snow-capped mountains of Utah. When she's not working on her writing, she spends most of her time being a mom to three rambunctious children. She can also be found reading, talking to herself, helping others through fitness, pretending to write, hanging out with her husband, attempting to be an artist, staring at the stars, obsessing over books, Harry Potter, and mugs, and attempting to train her crazy, hyper-excited poodle Merlin.

At nine years old, Crystal was diagnosed with both Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome (what is now known as Irlen Syndrome) and dyslexia. She was in her adult years before she was able to push past the stigmatisms that follow these learning and neurological disorders. She hopes that her story may inspire others with learning and neurological disorders to chase their dreams. Learn more about Crystal at: www.frostcrystal.com

And now, let's dive into the interview!

Hi Crystal, and welcome! Thanks for taking the time to answer some of my questions.

1.       When did you first realize you wanted to be an author? 

I’ve always had stories in my head. The earliest memories I have of playing ponies were with these epic tales of adventure that would last through many play sessions. Reading was difficult and oftentimes painful for me. I was diagnosed with Irlen Syndrome and Dyslexia at nine years old and started to learn how to work my neurological and learning disorders. It wasn’t until I had my first set of colored lenses from Irlen Institute that I discovered a love for reading because it didn’t hurt anymore. I had worlds and stories in my head long before that, but it wasn’t until then (and a report on Christopher Paolini) that I realized I wanted to be an author. I wanted to share my stories with the world.


2.       Describe yourself in 3 words.

Oh, I’m terrible with this… Let’s see. Loyal. Creative. Stubborn. Haha!


3.       If you could only own 5 books for the rest of your life, what would they be?

Heather, are you trying to torture me? First with the 3 words, now with an impossible choice? Oh dear. I wish I could say the Harry Potter series, but that’s 7 books right there! So, I’ll go with… -Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by JK Rowling (#3)

-Obsidian by Jennifer Armentrout (#1)

-Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber (#1)

-The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson (#1)

-Fire and Ash by Heather Frost – no crazy cliffhangers that hurt my heart, but a fun story! Lol


4.       What’s something on your bucket list?

See my ancestors’ names on the Denmark Wall. Really, just travel outside the country in general, (Especially to Ireland, Scotland, Italy, and Greece) but I would love to see their names there.


5.       What is your writing schedule like, and do you have any “writing rituals”?

With three kids, my writing schedule is whenever I feel like I can get a few words in or stay up crazy late into the night and be exhausted the next day. I’m working on pinning down a better schedule, but every day is different.


6.       I know you’re a Harry Potter fan. Can you tell us what Hogwarts house you’re in? And what house do you think your main characters, Violet and Patrick, would be in? 

I am happy to talk Harry Potter anytime! As you know. I am in Gryffindor! As far as my characters… Patrick would be in Hufflepuff. His loyalty astounds me sometimes and he is an exceptionally hard worker. Violet… I would say is also Gryffindor. She’s brave in the face of danger, even knowing she isn’t as strong as other wolven – which, admittedly can get her in trouble. No matter the situation, she’s always eager to help someone and loves fiercely.


7.       Why don’t you tell us a little about Sun and Blood, and maybe how you came up with the idea?

Sun & Blood follows Violet and Patrick as they navigate through clan life and its struggles. Add in some drama and violence from a neighboring bully and some rogue, bloodthirsty wolven and you’ve got yourself a story. Violet learns early on that she doesn’t have a wolf spirit of her own, leaving her weaker than the rest of the wolven community, but with better senses than a human. She struggles with the realization of what that diagnosis means for her future. Patrick is from another clan and holds all those close to him in his heart, but at arm’s length. He’s really afraid of his past being exposed and desperate to keep everyone around him safe. When those rogue wolven I mentioned earlier start causing havoc for the clan it makes everything a lot harder and puts everyone in danger.

So… Sun & Blood was born out of frustration, to be honest. I love paranormal, particularly werewolves, but kept being disappointed by the books I was reading. I was so fed up with the many stereotypes that have taken over the werewolf world. I wanted to read something that was clean and fun, but still werewolves. Yes, their mating bond does enhance some things, but not to the point where it seems like they lose their mind and all they care about is their mate and jumping each other’s bones every second they get. Yes, there are some alpha male characters (or times when they act that way), but they are not all that way and they get called out on it. Lexie (a character early readers adore) has no problem giving Jax (Violet’s twin brother) flack for acting that way! 


8.       What was the hardest thing about writing Sun and Blood? What was the easiest thing?

The hardest thing has been getting Patrick’s character just right. I know who he is on the inside, but there are things happening that make it difficult for him to be himself. You get little glimpses here or there throughout the first book and hopefully, he’ll let us see a little more of himself as the story continues.

The easiest thing to write was the main storyline. I wrote well into book 2 after a back injury that kept me on the couch for 3 weeks. I then had to go back through and fill in the barebones, develop characters and places. Another easy part was any interaction between Lexie and Jax. They are hilarious and ridiculous!


9.       Do you have a favorite chapter or scene in the book?

I have a few favorites! The one I can talk about without giving too much away is the Moaning Cavern chapter. Moaning Cavern is a real place in California and everything about the place and tour itself was based on real-life experience. An old friend of mine told me about her time there and let me use it in the book. I can’t wait to visit the Moaning Cavern myself someday. She made me cry by telling me that she felt like she was back in the cavern while reading the chapter. There may also be a sweet moment between Violet and Patrick.


10.   How many books will be in the series?

Sun & Blood is a trilogy, but I’ll let you in on a little secret. I have ideas and plots already written out for three other stories about other characters in other clans. You’ll get to see Violet and Patrick briefly in each to see how their lives progress after the events of Sentinel Rising. Two of those will be New Adult based mostly on character age, situation, and one because of darker themes. 


11.   Sun and Blood has a lot of action sequences! Did you do any special research for those scenes?

Yes and no. I grew up watching my dad practice Shoto-kan. A lot of what I write is from watching him and first-hand experience in training with him. I really enjoy writing action sequences! Every once in a while, I will have to look up the name of a move or watch a quick video to be able to better describe how someone would move through an attack. Don’t tell anyone, but there are times that I work through a sequence in my home (when no one is around), imagining the enemy’s placement and how I would react to it.


12.   Which character in the book do you relate to the most?

Probably Violet, but mostly when she is interacting with other characters. Her relationship and hot chocolate ritual with her mom remind me of my mom and I. Her conversations and interactions with Lexie remind me of my friend who offered her Moaning Cavern expertise and our friendship. There are moments with Violet and Jax that remind me of my mom and her twin.


13.   Which character was the easiest to write? Which was the hardest?

The easiest character to write was Lexie. She knows who she is and is lets the world know!

The hardest was Patrick, but I talked about that earlier.


14.   Describe Violet in 3 words.

Fierce. Loving. Independent.


15.   Describe Patrick in 3 words.

Loyal. Hard-working. Protective.


16.   I love a good side character, and you’ve got some great ones! Who is your favorite?

Lexie! I’m pretty sure she is everyone’s favorite side character as well. She has some major spunk and loves to vex Jax which makes for some very funny scenes.


17.   Do you have a song or playlist for Sun and Blood?

Not really? I listened to the Narnia soundtracks a lot until I found Ambient Worlds on YouTube and then listened to the Lord of the Ring’s ambiance and music. I always listen to something a bit more upbeat when I’m writing my fight sequences though.


18.   Do you have a favorite line from the book? What is it, and why is it your favorite?

There are so many lines to choose from and I’ve shared quite a few of them on Instagram. One of my favorites is, “Her emotions were everywhere. Cookies were needed.” Emotional eating is a very human thing to do, something I believe everyone has done at least once in their lives. Violet and her cookies are also the only thing every single one of my early readers commented on. One of them said I even made her go and buy some!


Thanks again for taking the time to answer my questions, Crystal!

Be sure to check out the rest of the tour stops here: 

https://www.frostcrystal.com/post/sun-blood-media-tour-schedule

---------------------------------

Sun and Blood releases on March 26, 2022!

LINKS:

Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/Sun-Blood-Sentinel-Rising-Book-ebook/dp/B09R42D3CX/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1647753194&sr=8-1

Amazon Hardcover: https://www.amazon.com/Sun-Blood-Crystal-Frost/dp/1957051019/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1647753194&sr=8-1

B&N Hardcover: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/sun-blood-crystal-frost/1141111778?ean=9781957051017
​
Add on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60490799-sun-blood

Add on BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/books/sun-blood-sentinel-rising-book-1-by-crystal-frost

***Also available on Kindle Unlimited!***

Follow Crystal on Social Media:

Crystal’s Website: 
www.frostcrystal.com

Instagram:
@Author.Crystal.Frost
https://www.instagram.com/author.crystal.frost/

Facebook:
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https://www.facebook.com/AuthorCrystalFrost

Twitter:
@_Crystal_Frost
https://twitter.com/_Crystal_Frost

Goodreads:
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18948162.Crystal_Frost

Book Bub: 
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/crystal-frost

Join Crystal’s Mailing List:
https://www.frostcrystal.com/contact

WARNING! ROYAL SPY SPOILER ALERT! 

If you haven't finished Royal Spy (Fate of Eyrinthia 2), you won't want to read this. 

You have been warned :)

Now, enjoy this sneak peek that includes the first THREE chapters of Royal Captive (Fate of Eyrinthia 3)!

Chapter 1
Bennick

“Be still,” Wilf barked.

Agony engulfed Bennick. He sucked in air, his fists digging into the ground, his body on fire. The blade had pierced his back and ripped through his body, coming out somewhere on his lower left side.

The pain was excruciating, but that wasn’t what mattered.

“Go,” he gasped. “Go after her.”

Wilf ignored him. His fearsome expression was marked by old pox scars and deep lines, his jaw locked in a frown as he tore Bennick’s bloody shirt, exposing the injury. His hard mouth became harder, his eyes going flat.

Bennick didn’t have to see the wound to know the stabbing was fatal. His eyes pinched closed for a moment, sweat beading on his forehead. Everything inside him was screaming, but he forced words through his constricted throat. “Wilf, go. Please.”

Wilf didn’t respond, only leaned close. “It’s clean,” he grunted. “The smell, and the color of the blood. Perhaps nothing vital was hit. Hold still.”

Bennick clenched his jaw as Wilf pressed a hand to his abdomen. His other hand slid beneath Bennick’s back to find the entrance wound. He squeezed, attempting to staunch the blood flow with his bare hands. Bennick snarled through gritted teeth, his fingers clawing the ground to keep from tearing at Wilf’s crushing grip.

“Dirk!” Wilf boomed. “We need a fire. Now!”

Sweat and blood drenched Bennick’s shivering body. He knew his skin was flushed, and the shaking grew worse with every fractured breath. “Wilf,” he croaked. “Stop. I’m already—dead.”

Wilf’s eyes didn’t lift from his bloody hands, still pressed against Bennick’s wounds. “You certainly talk a lot for a dead man.”

“Please,” Bennick rasped. “Go. Clare . . .”

“She’d never forgive me if I left you now,” Wilf snapped. The pressure of his hands increased. “You’re going to be fine.”

Time was difficult to judge through the fog of pain. 

Suddenly, Dirk knelt beside him, a few other guards huddled around them. When Dirk passed a heated dagger to Wilf, dread and panic punched through Bennick’s chest. The guards leaned in, holding him down, giving him nowhere to retreat as Wilf pressed the red-hot blade against his skin. 

A shattering scream tore through his throat. His head kicked back. His limbs jerked. Fingers tightened their bruising hold on his wrists and shoulders, keeping him pinned to the ground. He still thrashed against them, an involuntary response, his lungs nearly bursting with his anguished cries.

The blistering heat was unlike anything he had ever felt. Wilf was sealing the wound—the logical part of him knew that. They were giving him his best chance. But this was excruciating torture. The smell of burning flesh—his flesh—charred the air as the blade seared his skin. His stomach rolled—clenched—heaved. Someone turned his head to the side so he wouldn’t choke on his vomit.

“This won’t work,” Dirk said, his voice low and tight.

Wilf’s words were encased in steel. “It will.”

The sizzle of scalding skin finally stopped, but the burning was relentless, even after the knife was lifted.

“Turn him over,” Wilf ordered.

As they did, Bennick felt his awareness slipping. Darkness blotted out his sight, coming to claim him. 

A blessing, considering what Wilf was about to do again.

As his cheek pressed into the dirt, Bennick struggled to gasp out his last request. “Save—her.”

“I will,” Wilf vowed, his voice rough. “Just as soon as I’m done saving you.”

The fiery dagger touched his skin again, and Bennick was gone.

His last thought—the last image in his head—was of Clare.



Chapter 2
Wilf

Bennick’s screams rang in Wilf’s ears, even after unconsciousness had cut them off. A darting look assured him that his captain was still breathing, his chest lifting and falling, his pulse thrumming in his neck. The scent of charred flesh made Wilf’s stomach lurch, and he swallowed down a wave of bile. He did not allow his hands to shake as he continued to press the heated blade to Bennick’s flesh.

“Searing the wounds won’t help if something vital was hit,” Dirk said, his voice low and tense. He was terrified, too.

Wilf gritted his teeth. “He’ll be fine.”

He had to be.


Dirk didn’t argue. He released his hold on Bennick, as it was no longer necessary to restrain him. He pushed to his feet, twisting to look around them.

Wilf knew what he would see.

The carriage, sitting empty on the road, door ajar. Bodies of men and horses strewn over the ground. Arrows stuck in the trees, the carriage—and in the bodies that littered the area. Remnants of an ambush that had taken them all by surprise. Even now, the moans and sobs of the still-dying threaded the air.

“Cardon got away with Serene,” Dirk said, his voice too level. Wilf had served with the man for years—he knew when Dirk was trying to reassure himself. “Imara’s guards got her away as well. They’ll all return to Serai Nadir’s home to regroup.”

“Good.” It was a relief that both princesses were safe, but Clare was in the hands of bloodthirsty Mortisians who thought she was the princess. They hadn’t killed her outright, and Wilf had to believe that was a good sign. They needed her alive. But for how long? And what would happen if they discovered she wasn’t the princess?

“Where is Venn?”

Wilf stiffened at Dirk’s sudden question. “I lost sight of him in the fight.”

The older bodyguard was already striding away, searching the bodies on the ground.

Wilf’s heart hammered in his chest. Fates, he couldn’t lose anyone else . . .

Dirk wandered several paces before he froze. He muttered a curse and fell to his knees as he rolled a body over. “Venn? Venn!”

There was an answering groan, which loosened the knot in Wilf’s throat. He set aside the still-hot dagger and forced himself to focus on Bennick. He’d stopped the bleeding, but that was only part of his captain’s battle. Bennick needed a physician. Now.

“Vera,” Venn slurred, pain riding his voice hard.

Dirk shook his head, the silver hairs among his otherwise dark head catching in the sunlight. “I don’t know where she is.”

“Gone,” Venn said, the word ending on a groan as he struggled to rise. “They took her.” Instead of forcing him back down, Dirk grabbed the young man’s arm and helped him sit—a good sign that Venn wasn’t too badly injured.

A growl vibrated through Wilf’s chest. “They took Clare, too.”

Venn’s head swiveled toward him, blood tracking down the right side of his face from a blow to his temple. The young man’s eyes dipped, and his dark skin visibly paled. “Bennick?”

“He’s alive.” Determination lived in Wilf’s voice.

Dirk’s gaze swept the surrounding area. “Ser Zephan is dead. He escaped his guards, but not the arrows of the attackers.”
Wilf didn’t have the capacity to feel anything about the Mortisian’s death. Ser Zephan had tried to kill Serene more than once, and he had only been their prisoner so they could take him to Serjah Desfan to be tried for his treason. The irony that Zephan had been killed by other Mortisians, however, did not escape Wilf’s notice.

Venn’s shoulders tensed. “The Rose?”

“We have him,” a new voice rang out, and Wilf felt a flash of relief to see a couple of soldiers dragging the infamous assassin—hands still bound—between them. The guard spoke again, his voice rigid. “He was attempting to get away.”

The Rose lifted one shoulder. “You can’t blame me for trying.” His eyes fell on Bennick and his head tipped to the side, brown locks falling over his forehead. “Is he dead?” He didn’t sound concerned, or even excited—merely curious.

“No.” Wilf pushed to his feet. He ignored the fact that, as senior bodyguard, Dirk was technically in charge. “I’m going after them. Dirk, take Bennick and Venn to Serai Nadir’s estate.”

Venn’s head jerked up. “No. I’m going after Vera and Clare.”
“You’re injured,” Wilf argued.

The young bodyguard shoved to his feet, only swaying a little. His bloody face was set in stone. “I’m the best tracker here. I’m going with you.”

Fates blast it . . . “Fine,” Wilf bit out. “But if you fall over, I’m not picking you up. And we move now. If we hurry, we can find them before dark.”

“It’s charming you think so,” the Rose drawled.

Wilf shot him a glare. “Dirk, take him with you.”

“I would be far more useful with you,” the Rose countered. “Those were mercenaries. And not just any mercenaries, but Salim’s men. They’re far more clever than you think.” He nodded to the treeline. “They’ll ride in a large group for a while, but then they’ll split off in the forest, taking a few riders in every direction. You’ll have dozens of trails to follow, and only one will lead to Clare. What are the chances you’ll pick the right one?”

“How do you know this Salim?” Venn demanded.

“I’ve hired him before. He’s cunning, greedy, and sadistic. Since he thinks he’s abducted a princess, he’s going to want to deal with her personally.” The corner of the Rose’s mouth lifted. “And I happen to know exactly which path through the forest he favors, so I can help you bypass the false trails. I could lead you right to him—to her.”

A growl rumbled in Wilf’s chest. “What do you want in return?”

“My freedom. The moment I lead you to Clare, you let me walk away.”

“No,” Wilf said. “The only freedom I’ll ever give you is the kind found in death.”

The Rose shrugged. “Fine. But by the time you manage to find the right trail, you’ll be lucky to find Clare’s corpse.”
Bennick groaned behind him. A quick look assured Wilf that he was still unconscious, but even unaware of the world, deep lines cut into his face, clearly showing his pain. 
They were wasting time.

Dirk cleared his throat. “Clare was on my horse. That will make her easier to track.” All royal horses were marked, which made their hoof prints distinct.

“Salim will check for that,” the Rose said. “He’ll put her on another horse and use the marked one to deliberately steer you away.”

Wilf ignored the assassin. “Venn, gather any soldier able to walk.”

The young man stalked away, every line of his body showing absolute focus on his mission.

Dirk frowned. “There were a great many of them, Wilf. You need more men.”

“There’s no time.” The nearest place to get Devendran reinforcements was in Stills, and that small town wouldn’t have many soldiers. The nearest military outpost was even further. 

They would have to do this on their own.

Wilf dragged a hand over his stiff jaw. “Help me get him into the carriage.”

Dirk and Wilf lifted Bennick as gently as possible, using infinite care as they set him on the carriage floor; it would be the most stable place for him on the journey back to Serai Nadir’s estate.

Bennick flinched, but didn’t wake.

“I’ve saved men like this before,” Wilf said quickly to Dirk. “It’s a battlefield technique. A fever may follow, and if there’s any sign of bloating or discoloration, the physician may need to reopen the wounds—”

“I know.” Dirk laid a hand on Wilf’s shoulder, his grip firm. “I’ll look after him. You focus on saving Clare and Vera.” His dark eyebrows pulled together. “Do you want to take the Rose with you?”

“No,” he said, his voice firm. “I don’t need him.” He turned on his heel and strode away, not bothering to glance at the assassin he knew watched him.

He had done all he could to save Bennick. Now it was time to save Clare.

I’m coming, my little defender.

He would destroy anyone who harmed her.


​
Chapter 3
Serene

Serene stood in Tamar Nadir’s colorful drawing room, facing the large window that viewed the sunny courtyard. She would be able to see the others the moment they arrived.

They would arrive.

She kept repeating the words, a mantra that barely managed to ground her. Scenes of the chaotic ambush flashed through her memory, and her fingernails dug into her palms. Residual adrenaline still spiked through her hours later, making her heart stutter and pound in her chest. Standing in such a highly decorated room with towering bookshelves, overstuffed chairs, and brightly painted walls done in blue and gold, all made the attack on the road seem even more violent. The fists at her sides hadn’t loosened.

Where were they?

The door behind her opened and Cardon entered. She could tell it was him without looking.

She had always been able to tell.

“Serai Nadir thought you might like some tea,” he said, his smooth voice filling the room.

Serene snorted, not turning away from the window. “I don’t think that will help.”

A tray clattered lightly as it was set on the low table behind her, near the long settee. The smell of tea drifted to her. It was a familiar blend; Serai Nadir must keep some Devendran teas on hand. When china rattled, Serene twisted around.

Cardon stood over the tray, arranging cups on saucers. His large hands should not be able to handle the delicate items so deftly, but every motion was perfectly controlled.

Everything about him was familiar to her. He was thirty years old, and his brown hair was silvering in a few select places. He was taller than her, though not by much. He had broad shoulders and strong arms—byproducts of years spent on a training field. The thin scar on his right cheek didn’t detract from his features, but somehow enhanced them. Though she couldn’t see them right now, she could easily imagine the intensity in his brown eyes. He dedicated himself completely to every task—even something as simple as pouring tea.

She got a little lost watching him.

When he finished, she straightened sharply. He crossed the bright yellow rug with two filled cups and stopped directly in front of her. The scent of him—leather and spice—triggered a flutter low in her stomach, and her heart skipped at his nearness.

She forced herself to meet his gaze. “I don’t want tea.”

The corner of his mouth lifted slightly, his eyes knowing. “You always want tea.”

The strong fragrance drifted up, carried on the steam that billowed in twisting, curling tendrils. Ghosting—there, then gone.

She could feel the weight of Cardon’s stare as he waited.

Fates blast it . . .

She reached for the cup and he eased it into her hands. His callused fingertips grazed her fingers, making her breath hitch.

Her voice came out a little too heavy as she said, “I do not always want tea, Sir Brinhurst.”

He raised a brow. “I know I’ve irritated you when you start calling me that.”

“It is your name.”

“I rather hate it.”

“I know.”

His lips twitched.

She cleared her throat. “Is Imara still with Hanna?” Her cousin’s maid had been shot during their retreat.

“Yes,” Cardon said. “The physician Serai Nadir sent for is with her.”

“Good.” Serene blew lightly on her scalding drink as she turned back toward the window. “They should have made it back by now.”

From her periphery, she caught the long scar on Cardon’s cheek jump as his jaw clenched. “I’m sure they’ll be here soon.” The unspoken anxiety that threaded through his words perfectly matched her own. His next words surprised her. “We could return to Iden.”

Serene exhaled shortly. “My father would love that.”

“Your safety is more important than anything. Even the king’s treaty.”

“That edges on treason.”

The skin around Cardon’s eyes tightened. “It’s my job to protect you. There is no treason in that.”

But there was, in a way. Because Serene had been a traitor since she was sixteen years old. She hid the truth from her father by exaggerating a role of petulance and harmless rebellion, knowing he became too frustrated with her to ever look closer. He had never suspected that she was the leader of a rebellion, because all she complained about were dress-fittings and irritable nobles. He never knew that marrying Desfan was a part of her plan, because she complained so strenuously about the betrothal. He didn’t know that she would not rest until she’d destroyed him and her younger brother, Grandeur.

King Newlan was a terrible monarch who took advantage of his people and ruled with fear and threats. He had also murdered his wife—a crime he had never been held accountable for. Grandeur had known about the slow poisoning of the queen, and he had done nothing. That made him just as much to blame, in Serene’s eyes.

Neither of them deserved the throne, and she would take it from them by any means necessary. Even if that meant marrying a stranger. She needed strong allies if she was going to overthrow her father and brother. It was why she couldn’t go back to Iden, no matter how dangerous things became.

“I should thank you,” Serene said suddenly.

“For the tea?” Cardon asked mildly.

She rolled her eyes. “No.” Although she had to admit, just holding the warm cup and smelling the comforting fragrance helped her breathe easier. He knew her too well. “You saved my life yet again. How many times is that?”

He gave her a sidelong look. “It’s not as though I keep track.”

“You sound a little smug.”

“Perhaps I’m simply glad you’re alive.”

“I suppose your employment does depend on my survival.”

His gaze trailed the side of her face. “There are other reasons, Princess.” Her heart clenched in her chest. “You’re right, though,” he continued. “It would end my career. Not even a half-rate merchant would hire me after learning I failed to protect my last charge.”

She arched a brow, and ordered her heart to stop pounding. “I hate to think my death would cause such troubles for you. You might have to take up another occupation altogether.”

Cardon huffed, bringing his cup to his lips. He took a lingering sip, his throat flexing as he swallowed. “I think, Princess,” he finally said, his voice deeper than before. “If I failed to preserve your life, I would become a drunk.”

The image of Cardon hunched over a mug, mourning her death, perhaps being broken by it--

No. No.

She refused to do this. See things that weren’t there. Read too deeply into every word and look. Imposing feelings on him that he had already denied—emphatically.

She steeled her spine. “You would miss me, then?” she said, almost blithely.

His knuckles whitened around his cup. His lips parted, but the door was pushed open, ending the moment.

Imara swept in, tendrils of black hair falling loose from her bun, exhaustion etched on her round face.

Serene faced her cousin, her cheeks feeling too warm. “How is Hanna?”

“She’ll be fine, thank the fates.” Imara rubbed her temple. “The arrow pierced the fleshy part of her arm, so there won’t be any lasting damage. Have the others returned?”

“Not yet.”

Her cousin dropped into a cushioned chair, her shoulders falling. “There were so many of them. What if . . .?”

The unspoken question was one Serene could not bear to think.

A muted thundering spun them all toward the window, where a dozen mounted soldiers surrounded the royal carriage as it rolled into the courtyard.

“Thank the fates,” Serene breathed.

Cardon was already moving for the door, setting his teacup on the tray as he passed. Serene was right behind him, Imara striding alongside her.

They exited the manor’s front door and rushed down the stone steps where the carriage jerked to a stop.

The small door swung open and Dirk climbed out, looking horribly grim. His face was as familiar as any in Serene’s life; he had been her bodyguard since her birth. And he had only ever looked so grave once before.

When he had brought the news that her mother had died.

Serene’s stomach instinctively dropped. When Dirk shifted and she glimpsed Bennick lying on the carriage floor, a hand flew to her mouth.

“Is he dead?” Imara asked, trembling beside her.

“No.” Dirk’s throat flexed as he swallowed. “But he needs immediate assistance. He was stabbed.”

Cardon rushed forward and Imara murmured about getting the physician as she darted back inside the manor.

“Wilf seared the wounds,” Dirk told Cardon as the two of them carefully lifted Bennick out. “He hasn’t awoken, and he’s feverish. He may not survive.”

“He will,” Cardon said firmly.

Serene’s heart clenched. She looked around, noticing for the first time that Clare wasn’t in the yard. Or Vera. She froze. “Where are Clare and Vera?”

“They’re not dead,” Dirk said quickly. “They were taken by the mercenaries who attacked us. Venn and Wilf took six men and are tracking them now into the forest.”

“They won’t find them,” sang out a horribly cheerful voice.

Serene faced the Rose—Zilas, as she preferred to call him. Using his real name stole some of his threat and mystery, and she was sure it would irritate him as well. He was still shackled, a guard on each arm pulling him toward the manor.

Strange, how seeing an enemy could help her focus. Her superior mask slipped into place and she regarded him with an edge of haughtiness. “You seem quite sure of that, Zilas.”

The assassin smiled, his eyes dancing. As if he knew why she had used his name, and he found it amusing. “Oh, I’m dead certain of it, Princess.”

Serene dismissed him by turning on her heel and following Cardon and Dirk inside. Bennick was carried between them. The blood on his uniform alone had her fighting a gag, but as they climbed the stairs, the folds of his shirt fell aside and she saw the wound. It was low on the left side of his abdomen, the skin terribly burned and blistered. Serene swallowed quickly to keep acidic bile from rising up her throat.

Bennick was pale, his skin slick with sweat. Even his breathing was pained.

They reached the first available room and Serene dodged around them to open the door. As they lowered him onto the bed, Bennick’s agonized groan scraped her ears, clawing at her heart.

Then Cardon swore. “He was run through?”

Dirk straightened stiffly. “Yes.”

A tremble shook through Serene. With an injury like that, it was a fates-blasted miracle Bennick was still breathing.

The physician ran in, Imara right behind him. The Mortisian man was older, but his eyes were clear and sharp as he took in his newest patient. “The two soldiers can stay,” he said. “I’ll need you to hold him down if he wakes. The rest of you—out.”

Serene’s feet were stuck to the floor. It was Imara’s hand slipping around hers, tugging her toward the door, that finally made her move.

They remained in the corridor just outside, listening to the indistinct murmur of voices. Time passed. Servants ducked in and out, bringing water, towels, and other supplies. Horrible, gut-wrenching screams pierced through the closed door, and Serene had to tell herself it was a good sign—it meant Bennick was still alive.

Serene paced the hall, chewing the edge of her thumbnail, aware of Imara’s sharp eyes on her. They hadn’t spoken much, just waited together with bated breath for news.

Finally, the door eased open and Dirk ducked out. He looked exhausted, but his eyes found Serene easily enough. “He’s sleeping now,” he said, pulling the door closed until it clicked shut. “Cardon and the physician will remain with him.”

“Will he survive?” Serene asked.

“The physician has done what he can, but the fever is a concern.” Dirk gripped the back of his neck, his expression grim. “Time will tell.”

Bennick had to live. And Clare and Vera had to be found.

Serene could not bear any other alternative.

Royal Captive releases on March 18th!

Grab your copy in your preferred format here: https://linktr.ee/h.frost

Pre-order and get an EXCLUSIVE short story! 
Sign up for the gift here: https://forms.gle/nDubVYVaB7EPYRfh8


Which character are you most excited to catch up with? Tell me in the comments!

I'm so excited to have teamed up with so many amazing book reviewers, bloggers, authors, and bookstagrammers to bring this awesome tour to you and celebrate the launch of Royal Captive! 

Keep scrolling to find all the tour details and links, as well as buy links for the books and the pre-order gift sign-up!

A huge thank you to all the bloggers and reviewers 
who participated and made this virtual tour possible!

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Haven't read the beginning of this YA fantasy romance series? 
Learn about Royal Decoy here: https://www.heatherfrost.com/fate-of-eyrinthia-series 

MONDAY, March 14th

Cassidy Clarke - Book Review: https://www.instagram.com/cclarkewriting/ 
@cclarkewriting on Instagram

Crystal Frost - Character Interview (Imara) https://www.frostcrystal.com/post/fate-of-eyrinthia-imara-interview 

Heather Frost - Read the First Three Chapters of Royal Captive: https://www.heatherfrost.com/post/royal-captive-sneak-peek 


TUESDAY, March 15th

Book Briefs - Book Review: https://bookbriefs.net/2022/03/15/review-royal-captive-by-heather-frost/ 
@Bookbriefs on Instagram

Sarah Hill - Book Review + Character Interview (Mia)
https://sarahrylie.wixsite.com/author/post/royal-captive-the-fate-of-erynthia-book-3 
https://sarahrylie.wixsite.com/author (Scroll down and click on the tour banner image to download the interview!)
@authorsarahhill on Instagram

The Reading Pantry - Book Review: www.instagram.com/the_reading_pantry
@the_reading_pantry on Instagram

Thind Books - Book Review + Author Interview: https://thindbooks.wordpress.com/2022/03/15/royal-captive-by-heather-frost-review-get-book-one-for-free-link-in-post/ 
@thindbooks on Instagram


WEDNESDAY, March 16th

A Bella Fairytale - Book Review: https://abellafairytale.wordpress.com/2022/03/16/blog-tour-royal-captive-by-heather-frost/?preview=true 

Darkest Sins - Author Guest Post: https://darkestsinsblog.com/explore-the-kingdoms-of-eyrinthia-royal-captive-blog-tour/ 

Jack- Book Review + Podcast Author Interview: https://anchor.fm/createandcall/episodes/Interview-with-Author-Heather-Frost-e1fplc7 

Kait Plus Books - Excerpt: https://www.kaitgoodwin.com/books/blog-tour-royal-captive-by-heather-frost-excerpt-free-book/ 
@kaitplusbooks on Instagram

Literary Time Out - Book Review: https://literarytimeout.blogspot.com/2022/03/blog-tour-royal-captive-by-heather-frost.html 
@Literarytimeout on Facebook and Instagram


THURSDAY, March 17th

Batty and Anjali - Rook Review + Character Interview (Desfan) https://battysmammareads.blogspot.com/2022/03/heather-frosts-royal-captive-book-tour.html 
@cherumanalil on Instagram

Books Less Travelled - Book Review + Excerpt: 
https://bookslesstravelledreviews.wordpress.com/2022/03/17/blog-tour-royal-captive-fate-of-eyrinthia-3-by-heather-frost-bookreview-excerpt/ 
@BooksLessTravelled on Instagram

Bookworm Lisa - Book Review + Excerpt: https://lisaisabookworm.blogspot.com/2022/02/royal-captive-by-heather-frost-vligtour.html 

Caylin Nash - Excerpt:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/19Y9szxqClF6udT-OJZOwfcaQ4XgxWLQoV8UIDYI_Nr8/edit 
@mother.binge.reader on Instagram

Min Reads and Reviews - Book Review: https://minreadsandreviews.blogspot.com/2022/03/royal-captive-by-heather-frost-blog-tour.html
@minreads on Instagram

Pursuing The Happy - Excerpt: https://pursuingthehappy.wordpress.com/2022/03/17/blog-tour-royal-captive-by-heather-frost-exclusive-excerpt-gifts/ 


FRIDAY, March 18th

Captivated Reading - Book Review + Author Guest Post: https://www.captivatedreading.com/royal-captive-blog-tour-short-review-guest-post/ 
@captivated_reading on Instagram

Getting Your Read On - Book Review: http://gettingyourreadonaimeebrown.blogspot.com/2022/03/royal-captive-fate-of-eyrinthia-3-by.html 
@gettingyourreadon on Instagram

Purple Shadow Hunter - Book Review + Excerpt: https://purpleshadowhunter.blogspot.com/2022/03/royal-captive-virtual-tour.html 
@purpleshadowhunter on Instagram

Singing Librarian Books - Book Review + Excerpt: https://www.singinglibrarianbooks.com/teens/royal-captive-fate-of-eyrnthia-3-by-heather-frost-blog-tour-review-excerpt 
@singinglibrarianbooks on Instagram

Stars Books and Tea - Book Review + Excerpt: https://starsbooksandtea.com/2022/03/16/royal-captive-blog-tour/ 
@starsbooksandtea on Instagram

Why Not Because I Said So - Book Review + Excerpt: https://whynotbecauseisaidso.blogspot.com/2022/03/royal-captive-fate-of-eyrinthia-book-3.html 

RETURN TO EYRINTHIA ON MARCH 18th!

Grab your copy in your preferred format here: https://linktr.ee/h.frost
Pre-order and get an EXCLUSIVE short story! 
Sign up for the gift here: https://forms.gle/nDubVYVaB7EPYRfh8

------------------------

Add on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60134000-royal-captive

Add on Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/books/royal-captive-fate-of-eyrinthia-book-3-by-heather-frost

A DECOY trapped in a dangerous lie
A SERJAH searching for the truth
A PRINCE caught in a deadly game
A WORLD choked by secrets

Abducted during a devastating ambush, Clare is now the captive of ruthless mercenaries. Dragged through the wilderness while grieving heart-rending loss, she must maintain the illusion that she is the princess. Because if she lets the mask slip, even for a moment, the Mortisians will have no reason to keep her alive.

After arresting traitors close to the crown, Desfan fights to rebuild his court, knowing that the imminent arrival of the Devendran princess will further upset the precarious balance in Mortise. But Desfan’s world is rocked when he discovers a rumor that rewrites the most devastating event in his life. He will stop at nothing to find the truth–no matter where it leads.

As Grayson struggles to find his footing in Mortise, he discovers new friends and enemies. His life is further complicated by the tenuous alliance with his spymaster brother. With secrets deepening around him, Grayson must decide where his loyalties truly lie. Through it all, his heart remains in Ryden with Mia. Unfortunately, his love for her is no secret, and the Black Hand is a coveted weapon . . .

Eyrinthia holds its breath as allies and enemies collide. Secrets. Lies. Betrayals. Nothing will be the same.