First in an all-new trilogy from long-time Dragonlance author Douglas Niles. This title kicks off a key new Dragonlance trilogy from popular Dragonlance author Douglas Niles. This series will explore the post-war era in Solamnia, a central region of the Dragonlance world, continuing key story elements from the New York Times best-selling War of Souls series. AUTHOR Douglas Niles is the author of over 20 fantasy novels, many of which were published with Wizards of the Coast, Inc. He is also an award-winning roleplaying game designer who was part of the original creation team for the Dragonlance setting two decades ago. His most recent books in the Dragonlance world include Wizards’ Conclave and the Icewall Trilogy.

During the dark years after the War of Souls, chaos threatens the once-mighty empire of Solamnia. Goblins raid even fortified cities, and bandits rule great sections of the countryside. The ruling dukes, lords, and knights bicker and backstab. Through this chaos, James Markham, aided by his steadfast dwarven companion and a beautiful white robed wizard, wields his flaming sword to uphold the principles on which Solamnia was founded.

A new Solamnic Empire rises from the ashes of war. It is ruled by one man: a knight, a warrior, a virtual dictator driven by ambitions that trample the lives of all who aid them. An old enemy, mightier than ever, rises to challenge him. And there are other dangers - mortal and magical - closer to home. The man who would be emperor must face the gravest threats in his long and violent life.