After 21 years of waiting, Prince Donovan Beauregard of Delridge is finally of age to find a wife. Emperor Edward Beauregard declares a competition of eligible suitors from each region of Delridge to fight for Donovan's hand. Bound by duty, Brynn Harting is forced into the competition to elevate her family's standing. Harboring her own secrets, Brynn is thrust headfirst into a dangerous game of love and political intrigue as she navigates the unfamiliar territory of court life. Brynn begins to understand the court's inner workings and even becomes a frontrunner for Prince Donovan's hand until one of her opponents is found dead. Brynn begins to investigate the death until she is attacked and given a warning to stay away. Undeterred, Brynn continues her search, ending in an ultimate betrayal that will make her choose between life and death.