by Ellis Hunter
First published 2026
Astrid knows her death approaches. As the final Nachstern witch and heir to Arturea's throne, an ancient covenant binds her to duel Prince Zryan of Vatra for control of the Heart, the wellspring of all magic. The Blight spreads through her queendom, killing her people, and only victory can bring a cure. She travels into dragon territory with her familiar and potions to face Zryan, the most gifted dragon rider in generations. Meanwhile, performer Skylar arrives in Vatra's capital with her troupe, planning to earn coin from crowds gathering for the spectacle. She hates the royals who killed her mother, but when her closest friend vanishes in a forced conscription, her search pulls her toward the palace. As rebellion stirs and the duel nears, Astrid and Skylar's paths cross. They must confront uprising forces, personal darkness, and loved ones to discover whether their alliance will rescue or destroy both realms.
Genres: romance, adventure, fantasy, action
Vibes: dark, emotional, fast-paced, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family, royal-romance
Setting: Arturea, Vatra
Period: ancient
485 pages · Hardcover · Atria Books
Content warnings: violence