As the daughter of the King's huscarl, Brenna is well-schooled in the art of battle: skills she believes vital for defending her home and its people. She hopes to rule and create wealth and security through trade. But marriage seems to be the only path to fulfilling her dream.Vali is a seasoned warrior. Building the wealth and fearsome reputation of his people on distant shores has delivered treasure and slave labour to his homeland. He has no use for the politics of position and land, preferring the freedom of the open seas.She wants to rule the land and he lives for the sea. Is their love fated or cursed?