Darkness awaits under the prettiest wings: Emberly has already learned that danger can be masked by the most innocent of faces, and now she must continue playing the political chess match of her new life amongst the royal family. Saradin is out for revenge against both Emberly and Ardenia and the threat of war hangs heavily over their heads. Even as things are heating up between her and her princes, Suneel, Jett, Blaine, Hunter, and Flynn, Emberly must be careful not to let herself be burned by the flames and to keep her head clear enough to see the darkness hiding in the shadows. Blood, corruption, and a thirst for power are exposed as the secrets of the Guardians are revealed. Emberly must decide if the truth is worth disturbing the poisonous lies that weave through her world. Will all of her struggles be for nothing, or is there a ray of hope for The Valkyries’ Queen?