Gwen’s Boy

About the Book

The story begins with Queen Para’s secret protection of Gwen, a woman who bore King Alnac’s illegitimate child, Colin. To prevent political turmoil and assassination attempts from rival kingdoms, Gwen and her child are hidden in Para’s castle under the protection of Bailee. Colin grows up isolated, trained in combat and languages but kept from public recognition to maintain political stability. His existence remains a delicate secret to avoid civil war, and he struggles with his identity and lineage throughout his life. Queen Para and King Dorian prepare Colin as potential successors should Alexa, the primary heir, be unable to rule.
Alexa, Queen Para’s daughter, is the designated heir to the throne of Arsi. She is well-educated, multilingual, and has latent magical powers that began manifesting at fourteen. Unlike her mother’s-controlled use of magic, Alexa’s abilities are still developing, and Para awaits the right moment to guide her. Alexa faces political pressure to marry to strengthen alliances, notably with Jorin, heir to Rhodes, arranged by Queen Para to unite kingdoms through marriage. However, Alexa remains cautious and somewhat detached from her suitors.

About the Author

Jesse Ward grew up in Madison County, Kentucky, the son of a tenant farmer. His parents did not have much formal education but stressed the importance of education. He holds a bachelor's and a master’s degree in physical education and history from Eastern Kentucky University and postgraduate work in education. He has taught secondary social studies and has been a middle and high school principal and a secondary school supervisor. Jesse has a passion for fantasy stories and movies. His first two books are Reflection City and Kasmira.Mira.Marie, reflect that passion. His third book, The Church of Three Bells, is a love story set against the background of World War II. Mr. Ward has a passion for history, which is reflected in his storytelling. The newest book, Millie, is set in pre-World War I America, post-World War I, Germany, World War II, and post-war Europe and America.