Alhawat, an apprentice shaman, is sent to care for his dear, ill friend-Prince Loyein of Pyrine- on his journey to an arranged marriage in Vesuvineae. A trip Alhawat’s father knew he could not survive. When the prince dies en route, Alhawat rashly agrees to a bargain in which he takes the princes place in marriage. Once on Vesuvineaen soil, the weight of his decision sets in. Alhawat does not speak the language, is not familiar with the social or political structures, and most importantly, is not a prince. Alhawat will have to use all his skills to keep his secrets hidden, his husband safe, and his countries from war. However, even in a foreign land, Alhawat finds that people are not so different, regardless of where he is.

The Principle of Happiness is the culmination of approximately six years of planning and about three years of actual writing. Like most of my book ideas, this one came to me initially as vague conversation snippets and rough character concepts. It actually ended up being much longer than originally planned.

The book is in the editing process now. Please feel free to leave feedback and constructive criticism!