Rose is a slave. She has always known the weight of shackles and a collar, of being owned by cruel masters. Her life changes when the Vampire Prince of the kingdom saves her during a public flogging and takes her to his home in Crimson City.

Life in the palace is not what Rose expects. She finds a surprising friend in the prince's shapeshifting pet Larkin. And his master, the handsome Prince Adrian Neige, is as confusing as he is arrogant. Lines become blurred as a budding romance develops.

But a relationship between Rose and Adrian is not only dangerous but forbidden. Adrian's crown comes with expectations. He must marry a noble lady, give the kingdom heirs, and carry on the Neige way when he becomes king. With a proposal imminent before fall, tensions rise and rumors abound.

And there is more to worry about than the games of the social elite. With conflict between the monarchy and werewolf factions of the kingdom steadily worsening, several packs threaten rebellion. War is on the horizon. Adrian must find a suitable compromise—not only with the wolves but also with Rose.

Because the female he loves may not just break his heart but destroy his legacy.