The Bone Valley by Candace Robinson

 Anton sells himself to help his family, while Nahli steals to find her way home. The two have butted heads the few times they met. When Anton spurns the advances of one of his regular clients, she poisons him and he finds that she is actually the ruler of the afterworld, Torlarah. When he still refuses her advancements, she banishes him to the Valley of the Bones, where he is to live out his days, alone as a skeleton king.

Nahli finds herself murdered and wakes up in the Valley of the Bones. She and Anton must learn about their new environment and a way to escape the horrible curse. Left to themselves, they must learn of the other and face their own weaknesses.

Having read other works by the author, I think this story is her most ambitious yet. The world building is exquisite and is totally new and refreshing. Suspense, friendship, forgiveness, and romance are key building blocks in the story. It is an adventure for all who have risked everything for a chance at happiness.

No Bones About It!