A Court of Thorns

Aoife is, as her name suggests (Nic meaning "daughter of"), the illegitimate daughter of Prince Garbhán Ó Domhnall. Her father has never revealed who her mother is, although it is known that she was born at his father's castle at Fraoch Sliabh, and most assume her mother was most likely a commoner. She was brought to court as a young child. While her father and great uncle, King Éibhear, both doted on her, it was quite clear that the majority of the court didn't really care to have her around, especially her father's wife. However, she learned from an early age how to use the influence she had with both male relatives to her advantage. Her father was never much interested in politics, or anything to do with ruling, really, so once the king fell into extremely poor health and her father took over as regent, she began using her influence over her father to essentially make most of the decisions related to the kingdom. He has advisers, of course, and her brother chimes in from time to time, but he's not around very often and the prince doesn't have much faith in the advisers, so she is the main influence behind his decisions. She is also known for trading in favors, and most members of the court owe her in one way or another, which is how she maintains her hold.