Set in the world of the New York Times bestselling Seven Realms
series, a generation later, this is a breathtaking story of dark magic,
chilling threats, and two unforgettable characters walking a knife-sharp
line between life and death. This dazzling beginning to a new series is
indispensable for fans of Cinda Williams Chima and a perfect starting
point for readers who are new to her work.
Adrian sul'Han, known as Ash, is a trained healer with a powerful gift
of magic--and a thirst for revenge. Ash is forced into hiding after a
series of murders throws the queendom into chaos. Now he's closer than
ever to killing the man responsible, the cruel king of Arden. With time
running out, Ash faces an excruciating choice: Can he use his powers not
to save a life but to take it?
Abandoned at birth, Jenna Bandelow was told that the magemark on the
back of her neck would make her a target. But when the King's Guard
launches a relentless search for a girl with a mark like hers, Jenna
assumes that it has more to do with her role as a saboteur than any
birth-based curse. Though Jenna doesn't know why she's being hunted, she
knows that she can't get caught.
Eventually, Ash's and Jenna's paths will collide in Arden. Thrown
together by chance and joined by their hatred of the ruthless king, they
will come to rescue each other in ways they cannot yet imagine.