The Players of Briarstone
In a kingdom of thorns and shadows, every heart hides secrets
Princess Marguerite Ashford
The Reluctant Queen • Protagonist
"I never wanted a crown. But I will not let my father's kingdom fall to those who murdered him for it."
At seventeen, Marguerite was happiest lost in the pages of her father's library, dreaming of adventures she never expected to live. She was never meant for the throne—never trained for politics, never hardened for war. But when King Edmund falls to an assassin's blade, she inherits a crown stained with blood and a court full of vipers.
Through four books, we watch her transform from a sheltered princess into a queen forged by fire—discovering that the heart she was taught to hide might be her greatest weapon.
Tobias Wren
The Blacksmith's Son
"I don't need you to notice me. I just need you to be safe."
Common-born with uncommon loyalty. Tobias has loved Marguerite since childhood. He's steady where others are storm, patient where others demand. While a charming nobleman steals her attention, Tobias remains in the margins, proving that true love doesn't consume—it waits.
Corvin Vane
The Traitor's Son
"Trust me, Your Majesty. Haven't I always understood you better than anyone?"
Devastatingly handsome. Dangerously sincere. The son of her father's killer offers understanding and passion—but his affection runs hot and cold, and his eyes hold secrets that could destroy everything. Some love burns. His consumes.
Queen Isobel
The Stepmother
"I only want what's best for you, dear. And for Briarstone, of course."
Beautiful, poised, and endlessly patient—Isobel has waited years in Edmund's shadow. Her honeyed words mask ambitions darker than anyone suspects. In fairy tales, stepmothers are never what they seem. Isobel is no exception.
