Against all odds, Meryn Cooper has inherited the crown ? and a deadly war. As the Kingdom of Nocturna splinters under the weight of generations of lies, it is up to Meryn, her bonded direwolf Anassa and their allies to bring the country back from the brink. But the commoners, the Bonded and the nobles are distrustful of their new queen and Meryn is caught in a deadly game of politics. Meanwhile, Meryn's beloved sister, Saela, is more at risk than ever. Confusingly, the one person Meryn can trust is Stark Therion ? the dark, dangerous Alpha she thought hated her as much as she loathed him. Yet, his loyalty is unshakeable. His presence intoxicating. And with his guidance, Meryn can seize an unthinkable level of power. With enemies closing in and shadows stirring her dreams, Meryn stands to lose her kingdom ? and her heart. Blood will spill. Bonds will break. Fate will be tested.