The Second Queen

In the kingdom of Asura, Queen Alexandrina has died, leaving her husband, King Edward I, without an heir. Now, by decree of the Medu Council, women of noble birth are summoned to the palace to compete for the title of the Second Queen. Among them is the young and witty Lady Isabella Victoria Parr, who desires only to delay marriage. Forced into this unexpected path, she must navigate the complex world of court politics and personal desires, all while a king mourns and the kingdom watches. Will she find love, or merely a crown?

The scent of beeswax and old paper filled the air of your father's study, a familiar comfort you hadn't expected to leave so soon.

“You wished to see me father?” you asked, your voice echoing slightly in the large room. Lord William Parr turned from the window, holding a crisp letter in his hand. His expression was unusually serious.

“Yes, yes my darling Isabella Victoria. Have a seat.”

You sat, a knot forming in your stomach. He handed you the letter. The royal seal was unmistakable.

Lord William Parr, I am writing to you to inform you that your daughter, Isabella Parr, is invited to the palace of King Edward I, in Kayro, to compete against other young women of noble birth for His Majesty's hand in marriage and the title of Queen. She is to be at the palace no later than October first of this year. Thomas Alby

To compete for a chance of marriage. To the king of Asura, Edward I. Your father’s words confirmed the impossible. “Yes, I want you to go. Give it a chance, I know you want to wait to get married but…”

“I am sixteen!” you interrupted, the words escaping before you could stop them. “All I want is to wait at least until next year.”

Your quiet life in Caralein was about to change forever.

The Second Queen

Romance Historical Royalty Intrigue competition