by J.R. Ward
Part of Black Dagger Brotherhood, book 15
First published 2017
Xcor awaits his death sentence. The leader of the Band of Bastards has been convicted of treason against the Blind King, and the Black Dagger Brotherhood prepares to execute him through torture and interrogation. He accepts this soldier's end without protest, carrying only one regret: losing Layla, the sacred Chosen female he could never truly possess. Layla knows a secret that could spare Xcor's life. The truth about his sacrifice and bloodline would prove his innocence, but speaking up means exposing them both. She would lose everything she treasures, including her role as mother to her children. She must choose between the Brotherhood family that raised her and the man she loves. Even if Xcor survives, deeper problems await. The gap between their worlds threatens to spark greater wars and bring more death to their people. Meanwhile, an old enemy stalks Caldwell's streets, and a new deity emerges with unknown powers. In this unstable world, even destined love faces uncertain odds.
Genres: fiction, romance, fantasy, paranormal
Vibes: atmospheric, emotional, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Caldwell
544 pages · ebook · Ballantine Books
Content warnings: violence