Dithered Hearts

Cynthia Lynah wants her family farm back and a way out of life with abusive stepparents. A royal masquerade appears to offer a practical solution: marrying Prince Longhollow could give her the resources to reclaim what she has lost. A newly discovered fairy godfather offers help, but Cynthia's feelings refuse to follow the plan. She is falling for her two stepsisters, while the prince has priorities beyond choosing a bride. When magical complications intersect with a famine threatening the country, everyone's hoped-for escape becomes harder to secure. Cynthia must navigate desire, responsibility and the limits of a fairy-tale solution.