Lost Love, Lingering Regret

Beloved Princess Valerie Stone of Dazel falls from grace in a single revelation. Exposed as a false princess and accused, framed by Holly Stone for harming her, Valerie's reputation collapses. To shield her from open scandal, the emperor and the crown prince send her away as a hostage to Northo. They believe exile will save her; they do not know she will be enslaved and stripped of dignity. Three years later, scarred but unbroken, Valerie returns determined to speak the truth. Her plea for justice collides with a web of renewed lies. Every attempt to clear her name meets fresh accusation, and the court moves to condemn her again. Trust has been betrayed, and Valerie faces a desperate, lonely fight to reclaim identity and force the truth into light.