Will the Demon Admiral protect her – or leave her to her fate?
A Matter of Trust is a fast- paced, high-stakes, novella length space opera with romance woven through the action.
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—brilliant, ruthless, and feared as the Demon Admiral. He’s not human, and she’s a princess—two worlds apart. 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 her downfall.
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FAQ
Genre and details
- Space opera with science fiction romance elements
- Action, political tension, alien romantic lead
Is this the first book in the series
It is the first of the Dryden Universe stories but not really a series starter. Most are stand-alone stories
Is there romance?
Yes. The romance grows out of the action. Admiral Ul Mellor and Princess Amira have admired each from afar for a long time. In this story the attraction is put to the test
Is there sex
Yes, and this is probably one of the more graphic stories I’ve written. But the sex is part of the plot, not gratuitous.
Is this hard science fiction
The science is realistic but the story focuses on character, action, and political tension. Readers who enjoy smart SF with heart tend to settle in quickly.
Who are the Jorts
An alien species related to humans with a strict social structure. In his own society Ul-Mellor is a commoner
What themes does the book explore?
Power. Autonomy. Trust. Culture clash. What it means to choose your own future.
What formats is it available in
Ebook and paperback. Audiobook status depends on future plans.
Tropes and elements
- Alien culture clash
- High-stakes space conflict
- Devious politics
- An alien male and a human woman
Reader praise
“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.”