Kristin J. Dawson is a non-recovering chocolate and romantic English movie addict who loves to read science fiction and fantasy. You can find her most often indulging her favorite things at 2 am — night owls unite!
Kristin writes high fantasy with political intrigue, a bit of romance, and of course, magic. When she’s not writing, toting her kids around to sports practices, or cleaning out the chicken coop, she’s probably trying to talk her friends into more shenanigans.
In a world of magic, Nicoleta is unremarkable, except for her cursed, stuttering tongue. No special powers, no renowned apprenticeship, just the terrible, stammering aftereffects of the Lilac Plague.
Until she opens the ghostly blue vision from her mother.
Instead of words of endearment, the vision reveals that Nicoleta’s mother was a Guardian entrusted with a magical key — a key so powerful that those who rule will do anything to find it.
The burden of protecting the key now falls to Nicoleta. In a race against the crown, she must find the treasure and the true heir, the only one who can stop the curse from being fulfilled. Impossible? Almost certainly. One false step spells disaster. But Nicoleta is no fool. Where those before her died trying, Nicoleta forges a new path, relying on her wits and some unlikely allies.
Do you dare face the Lilac Plague? This coming of age, young adult fantasy adventure with mysterious magic, evil emperors, and a thread of romance will leave you amazed and clamoring for the next book.”
Would Elek try to kidnap me again?
I ducked into a narrow alley, hoping the horse and rider would pass by. Instead, they sped down the alley after me. The horse stopped and boots slammed onto the cobblestone street. I dug my fingers down into my satchel, clutching the orange-sting. I whirled to face my pursuer.
“Nicoleta.” Marcus stood holding Velos’ reins.
I’d never been happier to see his face.
“Need an escort now?” he asked.
I couldn’t tell if he was trying to be sarcastic or sincere. I didn’t care.
