The strongest of blooms arise from the blood-flecked snow. At only 21, the Briar twins have already known much tragedy. Nic and Misha's mother died in childbirth, then their father was taken by disease thirteen years later. Now the four faerie kingdoms are gathering to celebrate a century of peace. During the week of celebrations, Misha is reunited with Julian Warin, the prince she is in love with after years of letters between them...