The plan was perfect — a criss-cross marriage scheme that would preserve the secrets of two forbidden romances — until betrayal shattered everything and sent our young lovers into exile.

To survive, Arthur and Bedwyr must prove themselves as mercenaries, while Gwen and Elain face impossible choices between duty and authenticity, and all four will find their lives forever changed by an unexpected consequence of their wedding nights.

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Tropes

arranged marriage, marriage of convenience, forbidden love, found family, forced separation, exiles and outcasts, lovers reunited, secret relationship exposed, childhood friends to lovers, warrior couple, protector/protected, hurt/comfort, identity crisis, duty versus desire, battle couple, raiding and warfare, unexpected pregnancy, pregnancy revelation

Content Notes

misgendering & deadnaming of a transgender character (more information in this author’s note – includes spoilers); killing (self-defense); pregnancy & childbirth

Tags

Arthurian legend retelling, 6th century Wales, historical fantasy romance, m/m romance, f/f romance, trans woman protagonist, childhood friends to lovers, forced separation, mercenary warriors, border warfare, Saxons as antagonists, Welsh mythology, found family, duty versus love, pregnancy plot, exile and homecoming, fierce female characters, queer historical fantasy, chosen family