Chapter 32
A cute little excerpt from my fantasy debut. The night before the Winter Solstice celebration where new mates are celebrated on the longest night of the year. She is one of them, but her bond with Emris is a lie. A bargain made to please her mother threatening to steal her right as heir if she doesn’t court. She refuses to be tied down to anyone, and her secret lover Emris helps her trick the continent.
Lies have teeth… and Alora soon finds out that love can be a weapon too.
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In this captivating fantasy excerpt from "Of Salt and Sap," readers are invited into a richly imagined world where traditions and personal desires collide. The Winter Solstice celebration, marking the longest night of the year, serves as a pivotal backdrop where new mates are honored—a societal ritual with deep-rooted significance. However, the protagonist, Alora, faces a complex dilemma: her supposed bond with Emris is not born of genuine affection but a strategic bargain made under duress to appease her mother and secure her place as heir. The tension of maintaining a facade in a world that prizes honor and loyalty is palpable. Alora's refusal to be tied down speaks to her fierce independence and desire for self-determination, qualities that complicate her relationships and the expectations placed upon her. Emris, her secret lover, becomes an essential ally in their shared deception, illustrating how love, even when complicated or clandestine, holds power and influence over their fates. The intimate moments captured—the warmth of a whispered "I love you," the vulnerability behind Alora's smile despite her physical struggles—add layers of emotional depth to this fantasy narrative. These glimpses humanize the characters, making their fantastical struggles relatable to readers who understand the weight of secrets and the longing for genuine connection. As the story unfolds, themes of betrayal, societal pressure, and the weaponization of love emerge, inviting readers to reflect on the costs of lies and the resilience required to forge one’s path. The anticipation of the book's release in February 2026 adds excitement for fans eager to delve deeper into this vibrant world and its compelling characters. For fantasy enthusiasts and readers drawn to stories of political intrigue intertwined with heartfelt romance, "Of Salt and Sap" promises an enriching experience that balances fantastical elements with authentic human emotion. This excerpt serves as a tantalizing glimpse into a debut that skillfully explores the complexities of identity, allegiance, and the transformative power of love against the stark backdrop of a mythical Winter Solstice celebration.
