Hiding in a wagon attached to a runaway horse, Princess Maratia flees into the forest to escape the sadistic Sammel who has forced his engagement on her. Maratia journeys for days until she is chased onto warlord King Jashar's land. Thinking she's a marauder, Jashar captures her. Before he can get her to the castle, a man points his finger at Maratia and proclaims she is the monstrous person who had ordered the kidnapping of 20 of the village's young girls, and after having them whipped and warriors rape them, they were beheaded. Jashar's father, the elder king denounces Maratia as a vile murderer and claims she is to suffer the same fate as the little girls. And, he declares Jashar to mete out the punishment. To Maratia's despair, Jashar obeys his father. But, Jashar is having a hard time continuing to punish her. He doesn't believe she's guilty of the abominable accusation, but what can he do- other than fall in love with her and try to protect her while investigating the little girls' murders? Before Jashar can win the reluctant Maratia's heart, evil Sammel sneaks in and steals her away where he plans to keep her secluded in his estate to endure torture and force her to produce his heirs. An impossible battle on his hands, as Sammel's fortress is impenetrable, nonetheless, do or die trying, Jashar charges to the stronghold to rescue his princess. Will he bring Maratia safely home? Even if he can breach Sammel's estate, it may already be too late. Please be aware of graphic possible triggers. If you have such triggers you may want to pass on this book. There is a HEA, no cliffhanger and no cheating.