First published 2012
Jim Dasher stares at the wreckage of his spy network, dismantled by an enemy he cannot identify. War tears through Midkemia while silent coups threaten the thrones of Roldem and Rillanon. In each kingdom, unknown nobles emerge from nowhere to challenge established rulers. Lord Hal of Crydee receives urgent orders to escort Princess Stephané and the enigmatic Lady Gabriella from Roldem to safety, but no sanctuary exists. His brothers Martin and Brendan defend the crucial city of Ylith against Keshian Dog Soldiers and mysterious sea forces. The loss of Crydee would wound the Kingdom, but Ylith's fall means total defeat. Someone orchestrates these simultaneous conflicts from the shadows. Pug and the Conclave of Shadows race to unmask this hidden enemy before Midkemia collapses into chaos.
Genres: military-fiction, adventure, fantasy, action
Vibes: emotional, fast-paced, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Midkemia, Roldem, Rillanon, Crydee, Ylith, Keshia
Period: war
480 pages · Hardcover · Harper Voyager
Content warnings: violence, war