Mouth of the River (The Tuk Series, #1)

An ancient-world-inspired romantic fantasy where deadly trials, forbidden love, political intrigue, and the weight of destiny collide.

She had no intention of being chosen.

In the ancient city of Tuk, where power flows like the river that sustains it, Altara lives a quiet life. Drawing water at dawn. Crafting items for her parents to sell at market. She has a secret love she refuses to give up, and a future she's already decided.

So when she's taken from her life to compete for a king, she wants only one thing: to return to the life waiting for her.
But the trials are designed to kill as much as to crown. And the new king is becoming something she never planned for.

As the palace closes around her and the life she knew slips further away, Altara must navigate a game she never agreed to play—where power is masked as destiny, love is a liability, and the will of the gods is anything but simple.

But the river has always spoken to her.

And some currents cannot be controlled.

Perfect for readers who love:
Slow burn
Forced proximity
Enemies to lovers
Political/Court Intrigue
Deadly trials
Ancient-world inspired settings
Mild to medium spice