K. J. Dawson
The Thorn Raid
Prequel to The Lilac Plague
Surrounded by desert, Nicoleta’s city is at the edge of a productive mine. What they lack in agriculture, they trade for with gold. But when the plague hits and the gates close, Nicoleta and her family cannot survive on gold dust nor the scrolls in Papa’s study.
As food stores dwindle, the city’s only hope is the Emperor’s Guard. But Nicoleta won’t wait for the guard, the Thorns, to swoop in when she can alleviate some suffering herself.
Raw emotion fuels her as she sets to work . . . saving as many as she can. Even she knows it’s foolish to believe she can save everyone.
But soon she’s in a fight for her own life.
Dive into this prequel novella for The Unchosen Trilogy, The Thorn Raid. Before Nicoleta becomes a Guardian, she’s a half-trained Healer with a newly gifted, rune-carved amulet. Find out more about the guards, why the darkness terrifies her, and the truth of how she survives the raid.
Cornara
Two nations living under one ruler.
Both fear the one thing they cannot control… the lilac plague. It strikes at random, devastating every city it touches.
When it strikes Nikka’s hometown, her world is turned upside down. But the events that hit one after another after force her to become.
Magic System
Cornara’s Class System
Rose:
Upper noble with a title. Often in an influential position of authority in the kingdom. Often oversee an estate, at behest of the crown.
Lily:
Lower noble with a lesser title. Often in a lesser position of authority in the kingdom.
Thorns:
All military, including the city watch, Imperial Guard, and Emperor’s Own.
Azure Daisy:
Scholars and artisans, including: astronomers, philosophers, painters, sculptors, and historians. No title. Often have small inheritance and dwelling.
Clover:
Skilled workers, including: farmers, merchants, and craftsmen. No title. Sometimes own land or property.
Poppy:
Laborers, including: miners and servants. No title, no property.
Lilacs:
Desolate, poor, diseased, and slaves.
Reeds:
The Getaens, magical and non-magical. A class unto themselves. Although technically may marry into other classes, own land, or have wealth, always considered Reeds.
*Individuals can move up the class system by marriage, by gaining wealth, or by doing something extraordinary; and conversely, they can be demoted.
Tropes
At its core, this epic fantasy is an adventure quest filled with political intrigue and a unique magic system unlike what you’ve read before. But it also has…
“only one horse”
a missing royal heir
a race for the crown
first crush {forbidden romance}
Guardians and amulets
a dying kingdom
an “unchosen” hero
Don't miss Nicoletta's completed trilogy!
K. J. Dawson
A journey awaits beyond every page—where ancient magic stirs, legends come alive, and every tale whispers secrets of enchanted realms. Embrace the adventure with K. J. Dawson.