Risha is strong and outspoken, and at 16 has developed into a leader of men, a strategic thinker, and a woman—one can imagine—who will assume the legacy left by her mother. The story begins with 13-year-old Risha living a simple life in the mountains with her father. When her father suddenly dies, Risha is left alone, an outcast of her village. Disguised as a boy, Risha leaves the village with a group of traders, on a quest to find out the truth about her mother and her heritage. Here begins a grand sweeping adventure as Risha is caught up in dangerous pursuits, intrigue, trickery and betrayal. She is left for dead, confused by the actions of many, and is made to hide from those who wish her harm. She finds out by chance that she is Cattra's daughter. Who is Cattra—and why do so many wish Risha harm?

Who betrays her? Who fears her? Who is she wrong to trust? When Risha takes up her mother’s throne there is celebration—for some. In the murky world of politics, how can you know who to trust, when to fight, when to run? As war between the Five Duchies threatens everyone Risha loves, the hidden truth of Cattra’s legacy is revealed—but for Risha there is no time to learn to use her arcane talent, even less to save those sacrificed in her name. The stunning sequel to Anna Mackenzie’s magnificent novel Cattra’s Legacy.