by Anthony Ryan
First published 2025
The Sister Queens are dead and Nihlvarian invaders control Ascarlia's capital city of Skar Magnol. Elvine finds herself trapped inside the enemy's new government, walking a deadly balance between outward loyalty and secret rebellion. One wrong move means execution, but her position offers the only chance to organize resistance from within the occupied territory. Meanwhile, Thera commands loyalist forces from the Outer Islands, but her small army cannot retake the capital alone. She must forge new alliances and overcome her own self-doubt to become the leader Ascarlia needs. Across the ocean, Felnir cuts a violent path toward claiming a throne while Ruhlin tries to escape the brutal Nihlvarian homeland ruled by the enigmatic Vortigurn. As the invaders prepare to seize the wealthy port of Olversahl and complete their conquest, these scattered allies face impossible odds. Their success or failure will determine whether Ascarlia survives or falls forever.
Genres: historical-fiction, adventure, fantasy, action
Vibes: emotional, fast-paced, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family, underdog
Setting: Ascarlia, Olversahl, Outer Islands, Skar Magnol
Period: Invasion
457 pages · Hardcover · Orbit
Content warnings: violence