As uprisings and rebellions rage across the realm, Áine grapples with the consequences of her perilous decision. Drowning under the burden of grief, guilt, and shame, she wrestles with the shadows for control of her body and soul. Though her fierce protector, Daelon, has gone cold and unreadablehe remains in the castle, compelled to watch the love of his life get ever closer to his enemy.
When Lucius urges his new Queen to help him squash the revolution, Áine is forced to decide once and for all: fight for the realm or submit to the shadows.