Sky of Swords (Tales of the King's Blades Series #3)

An "unnecessary" child, Princess Malinda learned to survive by her wits and courage in her father's intrigue-ridden court. But when King Ambrose dies suddenly, if falls to Malinda to protect the designated successor, her infant brother Amby, from traitors who are plotting to seize the throne.

In a deadly maelstrom of treachery and murderous ambition, her only allies are the Blades of the Royal Guards. Bound to absolute loyalty by a magical ritual, they are the most able swordsmen in the kingdom, and the only men Malinda can trust with her safety—and her heart—to the death.