Born second in line for the Swedish throne, Prince Harald has always lived in someone else's shadow. At the elite Riddarhuset Military Academy, the bookish prince feels lost among the sons of nobility—until he meets Jakob Eliasberg, a scholarship cadet who sees past his royal title to the man beneath.

Jakob Eliasberg shouldn't be here. A brilliant student with Russian-Jewish roots, fighting for every scrap of respect in a world determined to see him fail. When the awkward prince seeks his help, Jakob discovers Harald's quiet determination and hidden depths. Their connection grows during stolen moments into something far more dangerous—and infinitely more precious.

As the sparks of war burn across Europe and Sweden flights to remain neutral, the Royal Family will do anything to protect the crown—even if it costs the young Prince his happiness. As the Queen’s threats loom over Jakob's family, the young lovers face an impossible choice. Harald must use every ounce of his wits and privilege to shield Jakob from his mother's machinations, while Jakob sacrifices everything to protect Harald from forces that would see them both destroyed. In a world on the brink of war, where love is rebellion, they will risk everything - their families, the positions and their lives - for a chance at a a life together.