Rowan gets caught stealing vodka from an enemy empire. She’s then taken and forced to face trial for the crime she committed.
Scarlet Princess (The Lochlann Feuds, #1) by Robin D. Mahle
Kestrel is the daughter of a wealthy general and Arin is a lowly servant. Kestrel impulsively purchases Arin to work for her, forever binding their lives together. The two quickly develop feelings for each other but not everything is as it seems.
The Winner's Curse (The Winner's Trilogy, #1) by Marie Rutkoski
A cursed kingdom, deadly trials, alchemy and the found family trope. This is such a great adult dark fantasy book. No spice but lots of romance & tension.
In the Wake of the Wicked (The Veridian Empire, #1) by V.B. Lacey
Sylvia is the lost princess to the kingdom of Jasad. Sylvia accidentally reveals her powers and ends up in the hands of the Nizahl heir, Arin. He forces her to help him hunt down Jasadi rebels in exchange for her life.
The Jasad Heir (Scorched Throne #1)
Viking vibes & the “touch her and die” trope. With their clans at war, Ciara and Leif both suffer prophetic visions that one day lead them to each other. Together they might just be able to save their people.
