The Spring Maiden

<p><strong><em>A nominee for the 17th Annual Whitney Awards in the YA Fantasy category.</em></strong></p><p></p><p><em>Penny Barclay lives by two rules: protect her family's ancient magic and never let her heart betray her.</em></p><p></p><p>As heir to the Duchy of Eleusion and a powerful plant mage Penny knows the weight of expectation. But rebellion is rising-one that seeks to enslave every mage in Olympia-and her sheltered life is no longer an option.</p><p>When the Crown's spy Lou arrives to hunt the rebels' mysterious leader Penny sees both a threat and an opportunity. Seizing her chance to prove herself she demands a place at his side stepping into a world of secrets shadows and dangerous choices-where loyalty costs lives trusting him may cost more and freedom has a price.</p><p>To save her people Penny must risk everything she's been taught to protect. But in the fight against betrayal and tyranny even a single forbidden choice-of heart or loyalty-could change her destiny forever.</p><p></p><p><em>Allison Anderson shines in her debut YA Romantasy. An imaginative retelling of Hades and Persephone filled with slow-burn romance a world brimming with magic and a girl who's journey is only just beginning. Perfect for fans of Marissa Meyer Holly Black and Kristin Cashore.</em></p><p></p><p>I love a good re-imagining of ancient myths and this debut author packs a punch! It has everything I look for in a story strong and fascinating characters to root for creative world building suspense a mysterious villain and just enough romance to keep me wanting more.-Jeff Wheeler <em>Wall Street Journal</em> Bestselling author</p>