Rhis, princess of a small kingdom, is invited along with all the other princesses in her part of the world to the coming of age party of the Crown Prince of Vesarja, which is the central and most important kingdom. When Iardith, the prettiest and most perfect of all the princesses, is abducted, Rhis and her friends go to the rescue.

What happens to Rhis and her posse has unexpected results not only for the princesses, but for the princes who chase after them. Everyone learns a lot about friendship and hate, politics and laughter, romantic ballads and sleeping in the dirt with nothing but a sword for company. But most of all they learn about the many meanings of love.

Sherwood Smith is the author of over 25 books, in particular stories for children and young adults. She has been writing fantasy since age eight, and her best known novel CROWN DUEL is currently in its ninth printing.

Visit her website at www.sherwoodsmith.net

"In this delightful novel... Smith's humorous narrative, colorful descriptions of palace life, and fully realized characters will appeal to romance and fantasy buffs alike."
--School Library Journal

"...Full-on adventure, with plenty of cliches overturned to entertain readers wanting a little extra bite to their fantasy."
--Locus