I recently read the first book in The Lone City Series called The Jewel by Amy Ewing.  Violet Lasting, now known as lot #197, was raised in the Marsh and has been trained as a surrogate for the royalty.  She is purchased at the surrogate auction by the Duchess of the Lake.  The Duchess has waited years for the perfect surrogate to carry out her plans to ascend her family to the throne.

Once Violet begins living in the Jewel, the circle of royalty, she learns of the bitter, cruel, violent, and backstabbing way of life that the royalty lead.  She knows that she must accept it and do whatever it takes to survive.  But then she meets Ash, the handsome companion that the Duchess has hired for her niece.  Violet has never met anyone who sees her for who she truly is and not just a surrogate who will continue the royal bloodline.  A forbidden romance begins between Violet and Ash.  She knows that the consequences could mean execution, but Ash is well worth the risk.

Being the first book in the series, it ends leaving you with many questions about Violet’s life to come.  This book is described as The Selection meets The Handmaid’s Tale.  It is a darkly riveting page turner and it will leave you wanting more.  The second book, The White Rose is set to debut October 6th 2015.  Not too long of a wait!