A Sabre in the Hemlock: A Spicy Fae Romantasy (Blade Bound Saga) by Dorothy Dreyer

First Place Winner of the Spring 2026 BookFest Award in the category Romance - Fantasy Best Book Winner of the Spring 2026 PenCraft Award in the category Romance - Fantasy/Sci-Fi Finalist in the 2026 Next Generation Indie Book Awards in the category Romantasy With enemies closing in and magic slipping from her control, warrior princess Celeste draws closer to unraveling a prophecy that could cost her the man she loves—as well as her soul. In the wake of the carnoraxis attack on Ivystone Citadel, Princess Celeste Westergaard's battle for her future has only just begun. Trapped under the king's watchful eye and hiding the magic awakening within her, Celeste must play the role expected of her, all the while uncovering secrets buried throughout Terre Ferique. As the royal court embarks on a tour to solidify bastard heir Dante's claim to legitimacy, whispers of war and treachery follow their every step. The Shadow Tsar's reach is growing, and the prophecy that fuels his reign foretells the rise of a power that will bring his downfall—one tied to the blood of the fae. From glittering courts to bloodstained battlefields, Celeste must walk a knife's edge between duty and desire, deception and truth. Because if the tsar discovers who she really is, he won't just come for her magic, he'll come for her soul. Read more