Never the Roses by Jennifer K. Lambert is a sweeping romantic fantasy about war, magic, and forbidden connection. When the reclusive and battle-weary Dread Sorceress Oneira steals a book from her powerful rival, Stearanos, she sparks an unlikely correspondence that defies logic?and fate. What begins as a series of taunts soon deepens into an intense, dangerous bond. Both haunted by past sins and bound by opposing loyalties?Oneira to a fallen queen, Stearanos to a corrupt king?they find in each other a rare understanding neither dared hope for. But love between them could reignite old wars, or worse, consume them both. With echoes of The Witch?s Heart and Circe, Lambert crafts an emotionally rich, atmospheric tale of two lonely, powerful beings drawn together in a world where love may be the greatest risk of all. Perfect for fans of romantic fantasy with lyrical prose, deep character work, and slow-burning tension.