It’s the one where she kills him.
Marra—a shy, convent-raised, third-born daughter—is relieved not to be married off for the sake of her parents’ throne. But her older sister wasn’t so fortunate, and her royal husband is as abusive as he is powerful. From the safety of the convent, Marra wonders who will come to her sister’s rescue. After years of watching their families and kingdoms pretend all is well, Marra realizes if any hero is coming, it will have to be Marra herself.
If Marra can complete three impossible tasks, a witch will grant her the tools she needs. But, as is the way in stories of princes and the impossible, these tasks are only the beginning of Marra’s strange and enchanting journey to save her sister and topple a throne.
Princess Marra’s beloved eldest sister was married off to a neighbouring prince, to ensure the safety of the kingdom. When she dies, Marra’s not-so-beloved older sister Kania takes her place. Marra is safely ensconsed in a convent, learning to be a midwife. But then she visits her sister, and realises that the prince is an abusive brute, determined to get an heir. If Kania can’t produce one, Kania too will have to die. And Marra will become his third wife. Marra will need to save both Kania, and herself.
This is a lovely fantasy, as Marra quests, makes friends and allies, and discovers her own strength on the way. It has few of the classic tropes, and subverts the ones it uses, leading to a fresh, original feel. Recommended.