Celestl by HR Moore

Marriage. Sacrifice. Duty. Destiny.

Once every hundred years, the Toll Bells of Celestl ring, and a daughter from each blade is sacrificed. But for three centuries the bells have been silent and war has raged.
This year, on the Day of the Toll, six marriages will seal new alliances to secure peace. Maria will do her duty and marry Elex, the Black Prince of Oshe, despite his brutal reputation. Perhaps he’ll even value her unique skills — if she doesn’t first lose herself in his bottomless brown eyes.
But not everyone is included in their leaders’ version of the future …
For Ava, glimmers of a glittering past only serve to highlight her pitiful circumstances. Orphaned and alone, her poverty traps her in servitude to those who would exploit her. She has nothing, until a well-dressed stranger gives her something to daydream about …

As Toll Day approaches, no one expects the long silent Goddess to raise her angry head. But if she does, her demands will eclipse any chance of peace.