The Wild Queen

by Cheri Chesley

The Wild Queen is the brand new ebook I'm offering as part of the prize package for our CONTEST! I'm launching this ebook right around the first of May 2011.

Here's a little about the story: Roweena is the crown princess of Norvallen, a tiny kingdom with only one thing of value—the Healer’s Grove. The trees in this small section of forest are enchanted, giving a sap that can be mixed into potions or salves to heal almost any wound.

And it’s in high demand.

Lucien, the young king of neighboring Demarde, comes to Roweena’s father seeking an alliance, but comes away with a marriage contract for young Roweena’s hand. Furious and stubborn, this untamed beauty vows he will never conquer her. But the contract purposely gives her time to come to terms with her fate.

It gives her too long. Before Lucien can return, Roweena’s home is attacked and her parents are murdered. The Healer’s Grove is also attacked—burned to the ground. With nothing more than her horse and the clothes on her back, Roweena goes to the only person she knows can help her. Lucien. But he can do nothing with no legal claim to Norvallen, so they marry.

Lucien and his army destroy the invaders and rescue what remains of Roweena’s people. He then makes Norvallen a part of his kingdom, but separate, ruled by a man Lucien trusts who answers only to him.

Roweena tries to carve a piece of life out for herself in Demarde, but her wild ways often clash with Lucien’s calm, reasoning manner. They have a son, Gregory, and then a daughter, Falina. When Roweena is pregnant for the third time, she vanishes. Speculation runs rampant. Was she kidnapped, fallen victim to a mysterious enemy? Or did she run away?

Aside from being an incredibly fun and entertaining story, The Wild Queen is something of a study on what creates a tyrant. Gregory has become one of my most popular characters, and several readers have expressed an interest in his past. And, of course, you can give the credit for my amazing cover to Deirdra Coppel.

Remember that comments on this post will count toward your points tally for the mini-contest, and put you in the running for prizes! Good luck everyone. :)