The Hero and the CrownRobin McKinley

Fantasy

The Hero and the Crown

Aerin is the king's daughter but remains an outsider at court because of her foreign mother and uncertain claim to belonging. Secret experiments lead her to develop a treatment for dragon fire, turning an embarrassing fascination into a vital defense for her kingdom. Her greatest battle sends her beyond familiar lands to confront an ancient enemy and the truth of her inheritance. Heroic and atmospheric, this fantasy suits a windy autumn day for readers who enjoy dragons, determined heroines, loneliness transformed into purpose, and romance that respects hard-won strength.

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Ancient Mariner Lime Tonic + Island Rum Punch

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At a glance

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Spice1 of 5

Suspense3 of 5

Creepy2 of 5

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No surprises at chapter twelve

Content notes

Life-or-death fantasy battles and dragon violence; fire and severe burn injuries; blood/injury detail; chronic illness and prolonged recovery; bullying and misogyny; mild sexual content/romance.

Alcohol-Free Pour

Ancient Mariner Lime Tonic

Crisp cucumber and lime bring a bracing edge to this lightly salted tonic.

What you'll need

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How to mix it

Fill a highball glass with ice. Add lime juice and cucumber, top with tonic water, stir gently, and finish with a tiny pinch of sea salt.
Garnish: Cucumber slice or lime wheel.
Glassware: Highball glass.

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21+

Cocktail Pour · 21+

Island Rum Punch

For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.

A bold, warming pour suits sweeping adventure and high stakes.