"You're gorgeous. You're funny, witty even. You're not afraid to fight back. You're smart. And that's a dangerous combination."

"How's that?" I ask, leaning closer to him.

His eyes are locked on my lips. His voice is low as he says, "Any smart male would kill to sit beside you."

When the High Family of the Woodland Kingdom is found murdered, Mae Bailey, a small bookstore owner and deer-Fae hybrid, finds herself crowned the new High Queen. But Mae can't rule alone. She must choose one of the five eligible High Princes to rule beside her, while also trying to solve the mystery of who killed the High Family. As Mae forms stronger relationships with each High Prince, she also learns that dark magic has begun to seep into the kingdom. Who will Mae choose to rule beside her? And will it end up being the person trying to ruin her kingdom?

The Lost Deer Queen is H. J. Nichols' romantasy debut that features a bachelorette-style romance, murder mystery, and tackles complex mental health issues. TLDQ is a tale of love, passion, and betrayal. This novel contains dark elements. Please check the full list of content warnings.