First published 2023
Alastar takes control of Solidar's declining Collegium of Imagers as political forces threaten its existence. The legendary founder Quaeryt is forgotten, and Alastar must navigate deadly power struggles with little experience. He discovers plots that could spark insurrection and works to protect his imagers while holding the realm together. Years later, Charyn inherits the throne as a young, untested ruler. Privateers attack royal ships while assassins hunt his family. Charyn educates himself against his father's wishes, determined to become an effective leader. He survives assassination attempts but faces greater challenges as social upheaval grips Solidar. Riots break out and war threatens the realm. Charyn struggles to prevent the kingdom from collapsing into chaos that would restore the High Holders' ancient privileges while leaving common people powerless. The stakes grow higher as he realizes the true scope of the threats facing his rule.
Genres: historical-fiction, fantasy, epic-fantasy, political-thriller
Vibes: intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: chosen-one, enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Solidar, Collegium of Imagers
Period: medieval, renaissance
2681 pages · Kindle Edition · Tor Books