*I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.* 

Maralyth Graylaern grew up hiding the one thing that made her different; her magic. Mara realized at a young age she had the power to help the vines at her family's vineyard grow, but her mother forbid her from ever using her magic. In the Kingdom of Perin Faye, they believe that only the King's magic is genuine, and everyone else has stolen magic. This is a lie. Years ago, the Thungraves stole magic from the Dallowyn's, and stolen magic comes with a price. This dark magic enthralls each king in it's grip, making them want more. Alac Thungrave sees the hold this magic has on his father, and even his brother Cannon who is next in line to the throne. Alac wants nothing to do with the throne or the sinister magic that comes with it.

Mara is taken from the home she has known her whole life and brought to Nelgareth's manor. Nelgareth explains to her that her magic is only possible because of her secret bloodline, as a Dallowyn. Which means, she has a claim to the throne. Mara is forced into a plot to overtake the Thungrave's and place her on the throne. But Mara soon realizes Alac is nothing like the other Thungrave's. How can she possibly be okay with him being collateral damage?

I was not expecting this book to be so good. I had been in a bit of a fantasy slump and this definitely brought me out of it. The writing was amazing and the plot never dragged. I have never read a fantasy standalone prior to this one, and I was pleasantly surprised! I would definitely recommend this magical book to anyone. Also, I was happy to see another pair of starcrossed lovers. I never can get enough of this trope.