Eleanor awakens on the eve of the imperial matchmaking ball, carrying searing memories of a previous life ruined by noble vanity and cruelty. Rather than competing for the arrogant heir of the earldom like every other socialite, she scandalizes high society by announcing her betrothal to Kellen, an unpolished village blacksmith despised by the aristocracy.
Rejecting highborn luxury to forge her own destiny, Eleanor uncovers startling secrets behind Kellen's unassuming forge. As sneering courtiers conspire to ruin her reputation, she builds an impregnable domain alongside a fiercely loyal warrior whose true martial heritage stretches far beyond common ironmongery.
