Will the Demon Admiral protect her – or leave her to her fate?
A Matter of Trust A Matter of Trust is a fast paced, high stakes space opera novella blending political tension, alien culture clash, and an intense romantic arc.
Reviewers say: “Wonderful world building. Such great detail, felt like I was there. Loved the h and H. Both are honorable, smart, courageous, compassionate people.”
“A really good SFR story with great characters and action. The romance is believable.”
“Very compelling. I read in one sitting. Passionate characters with great cultural descriptions. I buy anything she writes. She describes extraordinary events in a matter of fact way that grabs you. Excellent.”
About the book
After her husband’s death, Princess Amira wants freedom, not another arranged marriage. Defying her father’s command, she flees across the galaxy, hunted by his agents and desperate for refuge.
At the Empire’s turbulent frontier, she finds an unlikely ally in Admiral Ul-Mellor, feared across the sector as the Demon Admiral. He’s not human, and in his own rigid society he is a commoner. She is a princess. Yet beneath his cold exterior, Amira sees honour, intellect, and a dangerous spark she can’t ignore.
But when duty collides with desire, Ul-Mellor must choose between the woman who’s captured his heart and the command he’s fought to earn. And for Amira, love could mean her freedom—or ruin.
Want to read the opening chapter?
Read the first chapter free..
Or buy the book at Your choice of vendor
FAQ
Space opera with strong science fiction romance elements. It combines high stakes political conflict with an alien male romantic lead.
It was the first story published in the Dryden Universe, but it functions as a standalone novella. Most Dryden books can be read independently.
Yes. The romance between Admiral Ul Mellor and Princess Amira is central to the story. They have admired one another from a distance, but in this novella that attraction is tested under political and personal pressure.
Yes. This is one of the more explicit Dryden stories. The intimacy is integral to the emotional and political stakes rather than being gratuitous.
Yes. Admiral Ul Mellor is a Jort, an alien species related to humans with a rigid social hierarchy. In his own society, he is considered a commoner.
The Jorts are an alien species related to humans with a strict social structure and strong cultural traditions. Their hierarchy shapes Ul Mellor’s identity and the political tension in the story.
Power and autonomy
Trust under political pressure
Culture clash
Duty versus desire
Choosing your own future
Yes. The central relationship is between an alien male and a human female, with cultural differences playing a key role in the story.
Yes. The romantic arc reaches a satisfying conclusion.