The Mask

Rose Wooden is seventeen year old and she does not want to get married. But, her aunt is leaving her with very little choice. When the two finally come to an agreement, it is hardly satisfactory. Rose is given a year away from her home in Thespane in order to find a husband. If she returns without a spouse she must marry the man of her aunt's choice. There is only one problem. Emriville, the town of Rose's banishment, is completely devoid of men. In fact, there only appears to be two eligible bachelors. The curate Caleb Taylor is perfect. He is handsome, respectable, kind, and he appears to have an interest in Rose. But, could Rose ever be perfect enough to be his wife? James Hyden is a mysterious stranger. Everyone in Emriville is ready to trust him, but Rose isn't quite so sure. As her year draws to a close, Rose must decide whom to marry. Could she survive as Caleb's perfect wife, or will her own secrets get in the way? Does she dare to take a risk and trust James with her heart? Prince Henry Arden is searching for more in life. He is bored and disgusted with the whims and devices of the ladies of the court. His father is sick of his moping around the castle. A deal is struck, and Henry leaves the castle to explore the land looking for a bride who will love him for who he is and not his money. Then he meets Rose. She is the strangest lady he has ever met, and he finds it refreshing. He only wonders what she will think when she finds out that he isn't James Hyden as he has told her, but rather the Prince of Samaya.