Dakotashi Bennett, the infamous Bastard Prince, is tired of escorting his niece, the princess, to endless rounds of balls and parties as she chooses her husband. He wants to repay his half-brother the king for rescuing him from an abusive criminal, but can’t even begin until the king trusts him with more substantial responsibilities.

When the princess’ favorite suitor dies under mysterious circumstances, Dakotashi promises to uncover the truth. Although no one else believes it, Dakotashi and the princess become sure her suitor was murdered. When his inquiries make him a target of the unknown killer, Dakotashi’s only hope of identifying the murderer is the encoded ledger of the man who abused him for years. If Dakotashi can’t resist his need for revenge against his abuser, his life may not be the only one at risk. The entire royal family could be in danger.