Ten years ago, a young soldier tried to save Zoey and her mother. He was shot. She never forgot that brave, young soldier. When the Emperor orders Zoey Whard delivered to his Palace, she recognizes the order for what it is. A death sentence. But the Commander who is tasked to carry out the Emperor's cruel order is strangely, achingly familiar. She knows him. And he never forgot her. The connection and passion between them is too strong to be denied. Through their crushing, tormenting circumstances, they find courage and strength in each other. But in the dark depths of the Palace, as blood is spilled and forbidden desires burn dangerously out of control, Zoey knows that she will have to fight for not only her love, but her life. And she may lose...everything.