by Kate Elliott
First published 1998
The Kingdom of Wendar bleeds from civil war. King Henry clings to his crown while his sister Sabella gathers supporters to challenge his rule. Their struggle leaves the realm vulnerable to raiders and supernatural threats that emerge in daylight. Two young people find themselves caught in this chaos. Alain receives a mystical vision from the Lady of Battles that changes his destiny. Liath discovers she possesses magical abilities that could reshape the kingdom's fate. Both must uncover hidden truths about their identities and powers. As the conflict escalates, sorcery becomes more decisive than steel. The outcome will determine not just who rules Wendar, but whether the kingdom survives at all. Alain and Liath face choices that will cost them everything if they fail.
Genres: historical-fiction, adventure, fantasy, epic-fantasy
Vibes: atmospheric, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: chosen-one, found-family, political-intrigue
Setting: Wendar, Kingdom of Wendar
Period: civil-war
636 pages · Mass Market Paperback · DAW Books