The Queen of the Tearling

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On her nineteenth birthday, Princess Kelsea Raleigh Glynn embarks on a dangerous journey back to her birth castle to claim her throne. Unlike her vain mother, Queen Elyssa, Kelsea is plain, serious, and passionate about books and learning. Though inexperienced and sheltered, she is not defenseless; she wears the Tearling sapphire, a jewel of immense magical power, and is accompanied by the Queen's Guard, led by the enigmatic Lazarus. To reclaim her crown, Kelsea must confront a host of enemies who will employ everything from assassins to dark blood magic to thwart her. Despite her royal lineage, Kelsea feels like an insecure girl thrust into leadership over a kingdom she hardly knows. Her experiences in the capital reveal unimaginable horrors, and a bold act will plunge her kingdom into chaos, drawing the wrath of the tyrannical Red Queen of Mortmesne, a sorceress wielding dark magic. As Kelsea navigates treachery among servants, aristocracy, and her own guard, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and trials that could transform her into a legend—if she can survive the challenges ahead.