Rings of Fate – de la Cruz Melissa (2026)

Aren Bellamore is a barmaid who does not believe in fairy tales. She is too busy running the Raven’s Beak tavern, fending off unwanted marriage proposals and dreaming of escape to have any interest in becoming someone’s princess. But after a brush with death and an encounter with a dangerously handsome stranger, Aren finds herself bound to a bargain that could change everything. Prince Dietan has carried the cursed Rings of Fate, ancient weapons of devastating power, since childhood. Their magic is killing him, and his enemies are closing in. To undertake the journey that might reverse the curse, he needs a bride who can conceal his secrets, while Aren wants freedom. Pretending to be his fiancée seems to offer them both what they need. As their perilous journey brings political schemes, monstrous Kilandrar and an attraction neither can deny, the boundary between make-believe and destiny begins to blur. The fate of two kingdoms may depend on whether a cynical barmaid and a cursed prince are willing to risk their hearts. This romantasy combines the wit of The Princess Bride, the adventure of classic fantasy quests and a romance filled with danger and sharp banter.