Herlot of Alonia, the medieval fantasy debut from Maria Rosestone, is the first book in a trilogy of ancient magic, golden hearts, unicorns, and the desperate quest for survival from the epidemic bestowed on the land of Eraska by the wrath of a murderous king.

Delivered into the hidden land of Eraska under the lullaby of a willow tree, Herlot of Alonia has displayed unnatural abilities from a young age. Her village fears the strange happenings surrounding her and deems her a bad omen. Pushed into isolation, she befriends a unicorn and engulfs herself in a magical world; however, the magic soon comes to an end when she is forced to realize that her imagination may actually be the source of her suffering.

Just as Herlot reaches adulthood and has found her place in her village, her land is invaded by King Felix, a man willing to perform unspeakable acts in his search for a source of power to conquer the Empire of Ipta. Herlot’s land is now under attack by strangers attempting to poison her family and friends. In the midst of chaos and torture, Herlot’s magical friend returns and saves her from the king’s wrath. But now it is Herlot’s responsibility to not only save a magical world, but her people, as well.

Is the magic real, and can she use it to complete her mission? Can she not only trust herself, but a prince and two Iptan warriors who pledge that they will lead her and her friends into safety? Or will she have to become the leader of a quest she never asked for, let alone develop the magical abilities she will need to succeed?