The Ascendant Series by Kyra Gregory

The war continues... The conflict has ended. Queen Sybelle nears the end of her pregnancy, yet finds herself embroiled in another dispute that will dash her hopes of maintaining peace. As his ships are plundered and his trade is stifled, King Crios of Ludorum is at his wit’s end and demands that Sybelle breaks her alliance with the pirates and puts their unlawful business to an end. The decision to do as he asks weighs heavily on her mind... moreThe war continues... The conflict has ended. Queen Sybelle nears the end of her pregnancy, yet finds herself embroiled in another dispute that will dash her hopes of maintaining peace. As his ships are plundered and his trade is stifled, King Crios of Ludorum is at his wit’s end and demands that Sybelle breaks her alliance with the pirates and puts their unlawful business to an end. The decision to do as he asks weighs heavily on her mind. Should she sever all ties, she risks instability for her people. Should she defy the order, she risks their chance for peace. Now, she finds herself torn between her desires and the fear of becoming a monster. less

Some wars aren't fought on battlefields... While Queen Sybelle rules her kingdoms and conducts politics from her palace in Lionessa, Gyles Arrer travels to Azura. Unsettled by the changes, the Azurians struggle with the strong presence of their longtime foes; the pirates that their new Queen has called her allies... moreSome wars aren't fought on battlefields... While Queen Sybelle rules her kingdoms and conducts politics from her palace in Lionessa, Gyles Arrer travels to Azura. Unsettled by the changes, the Azurians struggle with the strong presence of their longtime foes; the pirates that their new Queen has called her allies.  Between friendships, old and new, the outbreak of the war with Ludorum and his own demons, Gyles is left with the task of maintaining Queen Sybelle's rule and holding an entire kingdom together. less