BOOK DESCRIPTION I wore her crown. I spoke her vows. I became his mate—and it was never supposed to be real. Leanna never asked to be anyone's salvation. As Princess Vivienne's body double, she was paid to smile, wave, and disappear. But when the princess vanishes hours before a treaty bonding ceremony, Leanna is thrust into the role of a lifetime—becoming the bride of Cedric Raine, the most powerful Alpha in the Northern Territories. It should have been one night. A formality. A lie wrapped in silk and ceremony. But the bond that snaps into place between them is devastatingly real. His touch sets her soul on fire. His mark burns into her skin like a brand she'll carry forever. And when he whispers her name in the darkness, Leanna forgets she's living a lie. Until the real princess returns, and Cedric's choice shatters her world. Branded a deceiver. Locked away. Cast out like trash. She escapes with only one truth: she's carrying the Alpha's heir. Six years later, Leanna isn't running anymore. She's built an empire from nothing, transformed herself from shadow to queen of her own making. And when she returns to Cedric's territory—heels sharp, head high, and a silver-eyed boy at her side—the Alpha who rejected her will finally understand what he lost. But the bond between them never broke. And when enemies emerge from the shadows, threatening everything she's built and everyone she loves, Leanna must decide: Can she trust the man who destroyed her to protect their son? Or will she burn his kingdom down and build her own from the ashes? He thought she was just a substitute. She became his entire world—and she's done being anyone's second choice. A scorching paranormal romance featuring a rejected mate who rises from the ashes, a groveling Alpha determined to win back his fated mate, their secret love child with extraordinary powers, and a second-chance love that will set your kindle on fire. Perfect for fans of fated mates, secret baby tropes, and strong heroines who bow to no one.