Shamsi, a beautiful but penniless entertainer, is haunted by a childhood tragedy that changed her life. She hides behind silken veils, praying to escape the desires of men. And keeps her secret close to her heart.

Lord Karim, military advisor to the emperor, is bound to put duty above all else, even the desires of his heart. Though he loves Shamsi, his soul-mate, she is destined for another. The man Karim serves. It is not the only obstacle to their union.

Shamsi is Hindu, a commoner. Karim is a Christian nobleman. Shamsi is Rajput; Karim a Moghul. And he hides a secret of his own.

Can love survive the truth? Or will the fire of their passion leave only ashes?

"Sunburst's Citadel is an exhilarating romance that will grip the audience from the onset ... The tale never slows down, as Karim finds he must choose between love and loyalty ... Therese Nichols provides a strong refreshing historical romance."
~ Harriet Klausner, Simegen.com

"Sunburst's Citadel is an exhilarating eleventh century (my guess based on the deep descriptions of the city) romance that will grip the audience from the onset when the preadolescent Shamsi finds the ash remains of her mom and other beloved family members. The tale never slows down as Karim finds he must choose between love and loyalty though the insane Fazid makes it a bit easier to select as the military expert refuses to allow history to repeat itself with his beloved."
~ Midwest Book Review