In this sizzling modern fantasy romance, a magicless queen intertwines her fate with a fierce warrior, but their undeniable chemistry ignites a passionate struggle, growing hotter as their fiery personalities clashfromNew York Timesbestselling author Lauren Blackwood.

Queen Theora Umbra grudgingly agrees to make peace with the neighboring enemy who killed her predecessor and friend, making her the new monarch of Aranea over a year ago. But she has no plans of going to the negotiations unprotected.

Theora quickly selects Argos, a prickly and formidable Warrior with a ruthless reputation, to act as her bodyguard in disguise. They are technically married, but Theora has no intention of finishing the ritual that would bind their souls together. Argos is merely a means to end the conflict safely.

Argos may have his reasons for accepting the arrangement, but he refuses to be a pawn in Theoras political games. If she wants a bodyguard, shell have to obey his sacred Warrior rituals, each one a show of defiance that frustrates Theora as much as arouses her. Let the games begin . . .

Theora doesnt expect to find her temporary husband so sexy, his possessive nature so addicting. And as peace talks begin, pretending to be married and in love is not nearly as difficult as pretending she doesnt desperately want himall of him.

The Queens Bodyguardunleashes a torrent of blazing romance, set against a vibrant modern fantasy world with webs of corruption and sexy scheming.

Lauren Blackwoodis theNew York Timesbestselling author of the Reese’s Book Club PickWithin These Wicked Walls.She’s also a proud Jamaican American who writes romance, gothic horror, and fantasy for most ages. When not writing, she’s an avid musician and powerlifter.

• Publisher: Delacorte Press
• Publish Date: August 18, 2026
• Pages: 320
• Language: English
• Type: Hardcover
• EAN/UPC: 9798217092406
• Dimensions: 9.3 X 6.1 X 0.8 inches | 1.1 pounds
• BISAC Categories: Fantasy, Romance, Popular Fiction