by C. L. Clark
First published 2023
Touraine and Princess Luca return to Balladaire with everything at stake. The rebellion succeeded in Qazal, but now Luca must claim her rightful place as queen by defeating her uncle, who refuses to surrender the throne. He declares a Trial of Competence and begins eliminating Luca's supporters one by one. Meanwhile, Touraine discovers that governing a newly liberated nation presents challenges she never faced as a revolutionary leader. The future of Qazal hangs in the balance because without Luca's uncle ratifying their independence treaty, her people could lose everything they fought to win. Both women must navigate political enemies and personal wounds as they work to secure Luca's crown and protect Qazal's freedom. Their bond will be tested as they confront the complex aftermath of dismantling an empire and building something new in its place.
Genres: science-fiction, romance, fantasy, political-thriller
Vibes: emotional, fast-paced, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Balladaire, Qazal
528 pages · Paperback · Orbit
Content warnings: violence