Of Great Price

Even the strongest of unions can be rocked to its foundation when truth and trust fall prey to deception and fear. The favorite uncle and chief advisor of Ylandre's monarch, Yovan Seydon was envied and desired by many in the kingdom. As dashing and handsome as he was rich and powerful, Yovan was of impeccable lineage, a member of the Ardan's inner circle and possessed of both brains and brawn. Had he not espoused himself early on, he would have been one of the most sought after bachelors in the land. Society's grudging acceptance of his choice of mate ensured his marriage remained the subject of speculation and puzzlement to the present day. Many could not understand why a royal-blooded aristocrat would wed a lowbred commoner however beauteous or moneyed Mered Cordona was. There simply was no wiping the social slate clean for his family whose dizzying rise to wealth and financial influence started in a moneylender's stall. Yet Yovan and Mered's decades-long marriage was the stuff that dreams were made of. A joyful and passionate union. A love match for the ages. Or so it seemed until long-hidden truths came to light. Truths that were damning enough to shake Yovan's faith in his mate and cast doubt on their ability to rebuild the love and trust that had been the foundation of their once enviable marriage.