Pippa, Archer, and Lionel return in this 15,000 word short prequel to Pippa of Lauramore.

The story before the tournament...

Grace is a smart girl with one unwise weakness: she is in love with Lionel, the Crown Prince of Vernow. She clings to the memory of her friend from childhood, but Lionel has grown up. He’s no longer the quiet, shy boy who had all the time in the world for the librarian’s assistant.

When Grace meets Javid, a handsome scholar who may be more than he lets on, she believes she might finally be able to let go of the love she holds for Lionel. But when Lionel feels her pulling away, he doesn’t know if he’s ready to say goodbye.

Filled with new love and new friendships, hard decisions and unexpected possibilities--this novelette is sure to please readers dying for just a little more Eldentimber.