Hazel Sinnett, still haunted by the events of the previous year—

immortality, Beecham’s vial, and her uncertain connection with Jack—feels isolated and unsure if any of it was real

. Alone at Hawthornden Castle, she focuses on treating patients while the castle decays around her, until she’s arrested for saving a life. Her fate seems sealed until she’s unexpectedly summoned to serve as the personal physician to Princess Charlotte, the sickly daughter of King George IV. Thrust into the opulence and intrigue of the royal court, Hazel becomes entangled with a secretive group known as the Companions to the Death,

uncovering dangerous forces within the monarchy

. As her role at court deepens, Hazel realizes that not only her future as a surgeon, but also the stability of the crown itself, may rest in her hands.
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This might be the first duology I've read, and if they're all done as artfully as this one, I need more. Schwartz wraps up our characters' stories so beautifully, I feel like I'm not left with a billion questions/wanting more detail. I was getting vibes of Netflix's 'Queen Charlotte', which just added to my enjoyment, since I adored that show. You can't help but root for Hazel, she's such a likable and strong willed female character. I thought her personality and dreams were created so tastefully.