Refined Crown Duel

The young adult fantasy masterpiece by Sherwood Smith begins with Meliara and her brother vowing to free Remalna from an oppressive king. However, the realities of war prove to be more demanding than they initially anticipated. When Meliaria is captured by the enemy commander, the elegant Marquis of Shevraeth, her only options are to escape or face certain demise.

Following her harrowing ordeal, Meliaria confronts an even more daunting challenge – the battlefield is no longer one of mud and steel, but rather the intricate world of palaces, where the weapons of choice are manners and fans. The most formidable obstacle she must navigate, however, is the complex dance of courtship, as the one who captures her heart is none other than her personal adversary – the new king himself.

This beloved romantic fantasy has remained in continuous print for over two decades, captivating readers with its compelling narrative. The definitive edition of the work has been meticulously corrected and enhanced with the inclusion of six much-requested inserts from the hero's perspective, providing readers with a deeper and more immersive experience.

The story's enduring popularity is a testament to Sherwood Smith's masterful storytelling and her ability to craft a captivating tale that seamlessly blends the realms of fantasy, romance, and political intrigue. Readers are drawn into a world where the line between enemy and ally is often blurred, and the true strength of one's character is put to the test in the face of adversity.

The narrative's rich tapestry of emotions, from the thrill of battle to the tenderness of love, is woven together with a deftness that leaves an indelible mark on the reader's heart. The protagonist's journey, fraught with challenges and unexpected twists, serves as a powerful metaphor for the universal human experience, resonating with audiences across generations.

Sherwood Smith's masterpiece has firmly established itself as a beloved classic within the young adult fantasy genre, inspiring countless readers to embark on their own imaginative adventures. The definitive edition, with its refined presentation and additional insights from the hero's perspective, invites both new and returning fans to immerse themselves in a world of captivating storytelling that continues to captivate and inspire.

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