Downloading The Ashes of Winter (Book of Payne 0.5)

The Ashes of Winter is the prequel to the Book of Payne dark fantasy series. It features powerful Priestesses with nature-inspired magic, sweet sapphic romance, two Gods on the brink of war, and a friendship put to the ultimate test.

The young Alma Payne is next in line to lead her people as their High Priestess of Ebroth. It’s an intimidating responsibility, being the only link between the mortal realm and her God, but she finds it easier to navigate with her best friend by her side.

Celia Throckmorton, the future High Priestess of the goddess Dienna, is always there for Alma when she needs her most. Alma is certain nothing could ever break them apart.

But when a fire breaks out in the sacred wilds of Ebroth’s people, it’s immediately clear that it was no accident. The people of Dienna have outgrown their borders, and need to make room for more villages. This betrayal marks the first fracture in the delicate balance of peace, and Alma’s once picturesque life quickly begins to splinter.

Furious, Ebroth turns on his sister Dienna. And unfortunately for Alma, the only weapons the warring gods possess are Their own beloved creations.

Can Alma’s relationship with Celia withstand the wrathful back-and-forth of Ebroth and Dienna, or will it too be reduced to ashes in the devastation of the last winter?

TRIGGER/CONTENT WARNING:
This is a dark fantasy novella. By dark, we mean grim. And when it’s dark and grim, it’s bound to come with a couple trigger warnings, right? Here they are:

Topic of genocide
Murder (off page)
Religious persecution
Funeral for a grandmother

You will never see persecution for race, disability, or sexuality in our books.

About R.P. Dunwater

R.P. Dunwater is the pen name for co-authors Stephanie Withers and Kimberly Allen.

They met in high school, but we don’t need to talk about how long ago that was. What started as writing joint fan fiction projects evolved over the decade(s) into creating their own fantasy worlds with more realistic, and less overpowered, characters.

They both reside in New Jersey with their partners and fur children. They’re probably having a Lord of the Rings movie marathon (extended, always) or playing D&D right now.