by J.R. Ward
First published 2026
Sorrel has lived her entire life trapped behind village walls, shunned for her mystical powers. The Fulcrum crumbles and demons pour into the mortal realm. Someone must retrieve the Queen's crown from across the treacherous Badlands and persuade the ruler to save their world. That someone is Sorrel. She knows she lacks the courage of a hero, so she strikes a bargain with Merc, a ruthless mercenary whose reputation precedes him. One night of passion in exchange for safe passage through the wasteland. Merc agrees, but he harbors his own hidden agenda. As they journey together, desire flares between the unlikely pair. Enemies emerge from every shadow. Betrayal lurks around each bend in the road. Sorrel must complete her mission while navigating the growing connection with a man whose loyalties remain unclear. The fate of kingdoms hangs in the balance.
Genres: romance, adventure, fantasy, action, dark-fantasy
Vibes: dark, emotional, fast-paced, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family, reluctant-hero
Setting: Badlands, Fulcrum, Mortal Realm, Queen's Crown
466 pages · Hardcover · Bramble
Content warnings: violence