Gilded Crown

If he chooses his own happiness, his kingdom may pay the price...
Crown Prince Leo longs for freedom. Only while roaming the capital city in disguise can he escape the chains of his princely duties and looming coronation. When Leo's alter ego meets a mysterious ship captain named Zandra, their banter leads to deeper feelings. But with war on the horizon and Parliament and his authoritarian uncle demanding a royal marriage, what Leo wants and what is expected of him have never been more at odds.
Zandra didn't come to Daystra to fall in love, and she certainly didn't plan on getting so close to strange and persistent smuggler Cass. With her kingdom depending on her and her secrets at risk, the last thing she needs is an attractive distraction.
Amid the treacherous waters of diplomacy, politics, and young love, assassination attempts reveal a plot to dethrone Leo. Can Leo and Zandra hunt down the conspirators before it's too late? Or will Leo surrender a role he never wanted and hand all of Daystra over to a murderer?

Natalie writes fantasy stories of hope and light filled with adventure, twists, intrigue, and romance. She lives in the forests of Northern Minnesota where she first found her passion for storytelling. Through her stories, she desires for others to find they are not alone, and that even in this dark world, there is always hope.When not traipsing through fictional forests, Natalie enjoys chocolate, studying languages, exploring new places, and all things violin.