The Rose Bargain

England has been ruled for four hundred years by Queen Mor, an immortal fae. Every subject may make one bargain for their deepest desire, and the price is always something taken in return. Society expects girls to spend theirs on traits that attract suitors: a talent for piano paid for with a happy childhood memory, a perfect smile paid for with the sense of taste.

Ivy Benton is about to start her first season when the rules shift. Twenty-four girls are chosen to compete for the heart of Prince Bram, the Queen's fae son. For Ivy the prize is practical. Winning could rescue her family from ruin and release her sister from a bargain that wrecked her.

Alongside Ivy in the competition are Olive Lisonbee, who is clever, Emmy Ito, who is loyal, and Greer Trummer, whose fate looks tragic. Prince Emmett, the Queen's stepson, quietly backs Ivy from the sidelines.

The contest has a courtly, competitive surface and a darker system beneath it. As it goes on, Ivy sees how far the bargains reach, taking memories, bodies and freedom from the girls who make them. She is pulled toward a rebellion against the ancient power that built it all.