Love is the most dangerous curse of all.
A romantic and sweeping YA fantasy inspired by a Chinese fairytale set in an enchanted realm of magic and curses, treachery and secrets - where a girl must defy fate to vanquish a villainous Prince Charming and save the realm from ruin.
Once upon a time, there lived the fierce daughter of a notorious bandit forced into servitude by her evil stepmother. When her only friend, a beloved carp, is killed, Yexian's grief summons a mysterious spirit that sets her on a journey to retrieve her family heirloom, a jade ring with an orchid carving.
Her journey takes her to a royal banquet, where Yexian attempts to steal back her treasured ring from the King himself. Only he knows her true identity and seeks to trick her into becoming one of many of his many brides.
With time running out, Yexian finds herself drawn to the mysterious Lord Ying but is unsure if she can truly trust him. The truth lies in her mother's jade ring, and Yexian will stop at nothing to reclaim her destiny. But will she rise to the challenge or fall to the cruel whims of men who believe they are Prince Charming?
Praise for the Sue Lynn Tan
'Epic, romantic, and enthralling from start to finish. I love this book' Stephanie Garber, #1 Sunday Times bestselling author of Once Upon a Broken Heart
'A captivating treat for lovers of Chinese fantasy dramas and newcomers alike' Shelley Parker-Chan, #1 international bestselling author of She Who Became the Sun, on Daughter of the Moon Goddess
'An absolutely delightful and enchanting read!' Elizabeth Lim, Sunday Times bestselling author of Six Crimson Cranes