The Second Son

Princess Isabelle has spent her entire life bending to the will of those who have planned her life out for her. Sent into hiding when she was just an infant to protect her from the rebellion in her own homeland, she was betrothed to Prince Lionus when she was just an infant. When a devious plot against the royal family results in her husband’s death, Isabelle is left with a broken heart and an uncertain future. Only one year after his brutal murder, she has no choice but to choose a new husband and return to her homeland, taking her place as queen and repairing the war-torn land.
Prince Serge has secretly loved Princess Isabelle his entire life. The fact that she was promised to his brother has brought him no end of pain and suffering. After a deadly plot against the royal family leaves Serge hovering on the edge of death, he awakens from a coma to find that his older brother has died and his youngest brother has taken the throne in his stead. His future remains uncertain, but Serge is determined to find his own way in the world now that he has been given the gift of new life. When it is suggested that Princess Isabelle take him as her husband, Serge begins to hope that all his most secret dreams will now come true.
Despite the unexpected spark of desire between them, Isabelle resists the new path her heart is taking as she clings desperately to Lionus’ memory. Can Isabelle let go of her past and learn to Serge return, or is she destined to a life tied to one man as she still mourns the other?
**

"Marion writes with a quiet and pleasing humor, and renders solid, sympathetic, appealing characters. I admired Isabelle's determination to finally step up and make her own plans, rather than meekly accept those others made for her. And it was difficult to watch Serge struggle between his pride and the welfare of his kingdom, but I celebrated with him as he learned the benefits of humility.

Once the story hits its stride, danger and drama abounds. Marion excels in providing plot twists that are as surprising as the characters who live them.

My favorite thread in the book involves a band of female warriors -- when I wasn't crying for these soldiers, I was cheering like a fiend. The Second Son is an entertaining read, with an ending both stirring and satisfying."
-Kathy Altman, Happy Ever After USA Today Blog

Kings of Cardenas Series Reading Order

The Third Son
The Second Son
The Lady Knights of Barony
Gypsy Rose
The Gypsy

The Mistress