Deveran Conflict Series

In the aftermath of the Kamerese Civil War, Cassie Velez and her affianced boyfriend, Jared Hohner, live as uneasy guests of King Alejo at his palace in Kameron City. Food shortages and a vitriolic press stir the passions of the Kamerese people, resulting in rioting and violence. Can Jared persuade the king to enact positive change and prevent another crisis? Will Cassie successfully navigate the dangerous minefield of social interaction with tempestuous Queen Ariadna and her guest, Hermenia Vega, the heiress of the feared rebel warlord, El Caudillo? Meanwhile, Kira and Algernon Ravenwood begin their long-anticipated public service among young women in the Tamarian capital of Marvic. Facing much uncertainty, outright hostility from the girls they’re trying to help and the men who exploit them, the twin siblings must work in close harmony in order to succeed. But threats from an assassin’s guild and relational discord threaten to unravel Kira’s aspirations, while Algernon struggles to affirm the authenticity of his ministerial calling. Garrick, their older brother, commands Third Platoon Alpha Company in garrison. Haunted by nightmares and dealing with post-traumatic stress, Garrick must maintain high standards of performance among the weary and bickering members of his platoon. With a new commander raising expectations, can the young lieutenant cope with peacetime responsibilities? Or will fatigue and the forbidden affection of Brenna Velez, his soon-to-be-bride, derail Garrick’s career? Brenna’s faith, crippled by guilt, is put to a supreme test as evil spirits torment her consciousness. Is she involved in a genuine spiritual battle, or is she going crazy? Will her struggle ruin her relationship with Garrick and wreck their wedding plans? Or, can Brenna learn to accept grace, forgive the people who mistreated her and marry the man she loves? All is revealed in Ceremonies and Celebrations, Book Four of the Deveran Conflict Series.

Algernon Ravenwood wanted to get as far away from Cynthia Velez as possible. She was too lovely for him to resist, too compelling for him to turn away. Algernon knew that even if he never set eyes on her again, she’d live in his dreams and haunt his waking hours. As it was, he’d been dreaming of her every night . . . Against his wishes, a strange set of circumstances arises to test Algernon’s mettle. Will he deny his desire and remain faithful to Bronwyn, his girl back home? Can he overcome personal doubt and the sneering contempt of those who deny his calling to the priesthood? If so, how can the Great God use a man who’d failed an important spiritual test? Kira, Algernon’s twin sister, has to face strong opposition to her charitable work without the formidable assistance of her brothers. Ruthlessly attacked by the Temple leadership, Kira struggles to restore her damaged reputation. Her advocacy for women who work in the sex trade industry is threatened by evaporating financial support and social trouble at home. Can she triumph over those who cast aspersions on her dream of public service? Lieutenant Garrick Ravenwood, the twins’ older brother, is suddenly called off to the Saradon Plateau. His unit faces a fierce and highly mobile enemy who refuses to fight on fair terms. Garrick has faced death before, but now he risks leaving his young bride as a widow for the rest of her days. Now he faces an enemy whose actions hack at the roots of everything he considers noble about the profession of soldiering. Will Garrick prevail on the battlefield? Will he win the battle for his soul? Brenna Velez, Garrick’s newlywed bride, experiences the powerful change that Lithians call Y Newen, the bride’s desire. She longs for her husband, but his departure leaves her feeling empty and alone. In her new role as the palace music teacher, old conflicts over her youthful beauty and ethnicity arise. Can she motivate her reluctant students? Can she overcome the prejudice of their parents? Moreover, can Brenna survive and feel content without her beloved Garrick?

Algernon Ravenwood struggles to build a home on Superstition Mesa, but discovers giants living nearby. His twin sister, Kira, suffers a lingering, secret malaise. As her past haunts her present, can she find hope for the future? Garrick, their brother, faces defeat as a combat leader and dissent within his ranks, while his beloved Brenna is held captive. Will she seek revenge when she escapes?

Haunted by distressing memories of his recent combat tour, Lieutenant Garrick Ravenwood returns home to his beloved wife and family. Against the backdrop of a Senate Inquest probing the conduct of the Expeditionary Force, Garrick is drawn into an ongoing conflict involving his little sister, Kira. Someone thinks she’s a threat. Someone wants her dead . . .