First published 2023
Kel was stolen as a child to become the Sword Catcher, trained to die in place of Prince Conor Aurelian. The two boys grew up together in Castellane, a city where nobles and criminals alike chase wealth and power. Kel accepts his fate even as he and Conor share a bond like brothers. Lin Caster belongs to the Ashkar, a magical people forced to live behind walls. She works as a physician, leaving the confines of her community to treat the sick throughout Castellane. When she needs forbidden knowledge to save her closest friend, Lin faces an impossible choice. An assassination attempt on Prince Conor brings Kel and Lin together. The mysterious Ragpicker King, who controls Castellane's criminal underworld, offers each of them what they most desire. As they enter his shadowy realm, they uncover corruption that extends from the city's gutters to its royal palace. Their investigation reveals secrets that threaten the kingdom itself. Kel must decide whether his loyalty lies with Conor or with the truth. Lin must choose between forbidden love and her people's safety.
Genres: romance, adventure, fantasy, action
Vibes: emotional, fast-paced, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Castellane, Ashkar
624 pages · Hardcover · Del Rey Books