Blood Sanctuary, Part One: By Vela Roth

: Cassia must convince human ambassadors to ally with the immortal Hesperines to secure her own freedom from her father, the king.

: While Lio refuses to use their fated "Grace bond" to influence her choice to stay, his life literally depends on her presence—a secret he keeps to protect her agency. Blood Sanctuary, Part One by Vela Roth

: Assassins and internal enemies within the human embassy use sabotage and lethal spells to ensure the alliance fails. Why Readers Love It : Cassia must convince human ambassadors to ally

: This installment is noted for its "measured pacing," focusing heavily on diplomacy, subterfuge, and world-building rather than just physical action. " focusing heavily on diplomacy