Ready for a quick peek at book two in the Ally and Cory series (Book One, THE WISHING RING)? Here’s a bit from THE KING’S SEAL, releasing December 2012…

Isabelle wiped her hand across her forehead, plastering moist strands of dirty-blonde hair to her temples. “A guest, your Highness.”

Ally laid a calming hand on her maid’s wrist. “Of course there are guests, Izzy. This is the first day of my celebration month. Mother said there would be many guests. No need—”

“She’s different, ma’am. Not from Ur or any of its surroundin’ lands. Her skin is orange and her eyes…yella.”

Ally furrowed her brow. “Orange skin. And yellow eyes? What is she, a drawing? Izzy, is this a joke? Teasing the birthday girl before the party?”

“No, your Highness. This isn’t a tale. I’m not fibbin’. There’s a girl who speaks with your father in the throne room this instant and she is as I says, orange and yella. The queen sent me here. She says your ringing in will be delayed. I’m to sit with you until Margaret comes to get us.”

Ally jumped to her feet. “Delayed? No. I’ve waited forever to get my Teenth ring. It can’t be delayed. Orange girl or not.” Determination pressed her feet forward as Ally made her way to the door. “I’ll just have to speak with them, myself.”

More soon!