Forbidden Fruit

See the secrets of Eden's twisted legacy from a new perspective with this short story set in the world of bestselling author Joelle Charbonneau's Dividing Eden.

Graylem was born to expect a life of thievery, but superior swordsmanship and a desire for something better had long fueled his dreams to become a member of a noble family's guard.

But when his sister Deevana's latest scheme forces them to leave their home?and all memories of their life in Blackthorn Keep?behind, they chart a southern course towards a new life in Irae, by way of the magnificent Garden City. Disguised as northern nobles, they quickly find themselves caught up in the mysterious politics of Eden's royal family?and infatuated by its newest member, the beautiful seeress Imogen.

A member of Eden's guard offers Graylem the chance to prove his worth, but his brutal trial for entry into the guard is waylaid by the appearance of Prince Andreus and Princess Carys. Graylem may be a simple man, but when he sees the royal siblings conferring in secret, he knows that all is not well in the Palace of the Winds?and before long, he learns that whatever darkness is lurking in the city's walls could mean devastation for his family... and for Eden.

• A Dividing Eden Companion Story: Perfect for fans of Joelle Charbonneau's bestselling series, this prequel novella reveals the twisted legacy of Eden from a new perspective and explores the darkness that existed long before the Trials of Virtuous Succession.
• Sibling Loyalty Tested: He's an aspiring guardsman with a sword and a conscience; she's a reckless thief with dangerous ambitions. When her latest scheme goes wrong, Graylem must choose between his dreams and his sister.
• Royal Court Deception: Disguised as nobles in Garden City, Graylem and Deevana are drawn into a web of secrets surrounding the royal family, a beautiful seeress, and the mysterious Prince Andreus and Princess Carys.
• Swords and Secrets: In the Palace of the Winds, a sword can earn you a place in the guard?or a blade in the back. Graylem's skill is tested, but the deadliest secrets aren't fought on the training grounds.