A Sea So Cruel by Stacey Foss

Missing villagers. An overcrowded orphanage. An unwanted betrothal.

The seaside kingdom of Salendron knows despair well, and Princess Asta is the only one working to protect it. Outraged by her father’s disregard, Asta begins investigating her townfolks’ disappearances. As for her sister’s arranged engagement, Asta knows her sister will dutifully uphold the agreement, but Asta doubts that Kaid—the groom—will. Asta can’t easily solve every problem in her life, but she can surely chase away a womanizing rat.

Kaid isn’t going anywhere. If he wishes to see his father’s impoverished dukedom restored, he must agree to the marriage. Kaid not only needs to fight against Asta’s attempts to end his engagement, but also battle the intrigue it sparks within him. When Kaid discovers that Asta has been sneaking out of the castle, he uncovers her plan to rescue her citizens and offers his help. As if balancing the sisters isn’t difficult enough, Kaid also feels a mysterious pull to the ocean outside the castle, making it difficult to obey his father’s only demand—never touch the sea.

They both want answers to different questions, and neither of them expects to uncover the truths they seek from the vast depths of the sea…