The Ring and the Crown

Melissa de la Cruz
Young Adult FantasyHistorical Fantasy
Cover image for The Ring and the Crown series
Young Adult FantasyHistorical Fantasy

Summary

Within the opulent halls of a kingdom teetering on the edge of chaos, Cress finds herself embroiled in a web of alliances, betrayals, and secret magic. Her world is one of glittering chandeliers and shadowed corridors, where every glance hides a motive and every whisper could be a threat. As political tensions escalate and long-standing rivalries ignite, she must uncover her own strength and forge unlikely alliances to protect what she loves. Amidst swirling court intrigues, her personal sacrifices and moments of vulnerability reveal the true cost of power and loyalty.

'The Ring and the Crown' marks Melissa de la Cruz's foray into lush, politically charged fantasy tailored for young adults. While she is renowned for her Vampire Academy series and her work on the 'Witches of East End,' this series showcases her versatility in blending aristocratic intrigue with magical elements. Critics have praised her vivid characterizations and intricate plotting, although some note that her focus on romance and personal drama occasionally overshadows worldbuilding depth. This work is well-regarded within her oeuvre for its engaging storytelling and appeal to fans of high fantasy with a touch of glamour.

Main Titles

1
The Ring and the Crown
Book cover for The Ring and the Crown
In the grand court of a fractured kingdom, Princess Marie-Violet finds her world turned upside down as political intrigue and personal loyalties collide. Her journey begins with a delicate balance...
In the grand court of a fractured kingdom, Princess Marie-Violet finds her world turned upside down as political intrigue and personal loyalties collide. Her journey begins with a delicate balance of power, where every decision could shift the destiny of her homeland, and her own heart is caught in a web of forbidden love and dangerous alliances. As threats loom from within and beyond the palace walls, Marie-Violet must navigate treacherous waters, seeking to protect those she loves while uncovering secrets that could threaten her very existence. Amidst the grandeur and danger, the princess discovers her own strength, challenging centuries-old traditions and forging a new path forward. Her resolve is tested as she faces betrayal and loss, forcing her to confront her deepest fears and desires. Every choice she makes echoes through the kingdom’s future, shaping her into a leader capable of uniting her fractured nation. The stakes are high, and the fate of her people hangs in the balance, leaving her to decide whether she will be a ruler of power or one of compassion.
2014 Year
5 Publications
Buy on Amazon View Details
2
The Lily and the Cross
Book cover for The Lily and the Cross
Following the tumultuous events at the palace, Marie-Violet’s journey takes her beyond the court's glittering halls into a world fraught with peril and promise. She must confront her inner demons...
Following the tumultuous events at the palace, Marie-Violet’s journey takes her beyond the court's glittering halls into a world fraught with peril and promise. She must confront her inner demons and the external threats that seek to destabilize her homeland. As alliances shift and enemies emerge from shadows, she learns that true strength lies not only in political cunning but also in the courage to stand for what she believes is right. In her quest for peace and stability, Marie-Violet encounters allies who challenge her perceptions and enemies who threaten to undo everything she has fought for. Her resolve is tested as she dives into a perilous game of diplomacy and deception, risking everything to restore her kingdom’s hope. With her heart torn between duty and desire, she must decide how far she is willing to go to ensure a future where her people can thrive free from tyranny and fear.
2017 Year
1 Publications
Buy on Amazon View Details