Peace has shallow roots in a kingdom still bleeding.
After taking her place as heir to her clan, Iryana bears a dangerous responsibility: unite the hostile soldiers and guardians before the threat beyond their walls consumes them all. But her strengthening magic, meant to help save her people, is a double-edged blade, slowly ripping her apart.
To make matters worse, the forbidden pull between her and Pyetar threatens to shatter their fragile alliance before it can even take root. Amidst the growing number of beasts and mysterious rumors of the wells losing their power, they fear something worse is coming. If they can't unite their people, calm her ruinous power, and uncover the terrifying origin of the beasts before winter ends, they will have to watch their whole world burn.