"[With] all the lush world-building and intoxicating magic of the Harry Potter universe," a romantasy about a sorceress's deadly deal with her sexy enemy ( Entertainment Weekly ). My heart wasn't part of the deal when I bargained for my life, but assassins so rarely keep their word. Exiled Charmer Leena Edenfrell is running out of time. Empty pockets forced her to sell her beloved magical beasts—an offense punishable by death—and now there's a price on her head. With the realm's most talented murderer-for-hire nipping at her heels, Leena makes Noc an offer he can't refuse: powerful mythical creatures in exchange for her life. Plagued by a curse that kills everyone he loves, Noc agrees to Leena's terms in hopes of finding a cure. Never mind that the dark magic binding the assassin's oath will eventually force him to choose between Leena's continued survival . . .and his own. "Lush and sweeping swords-and-sorcery romance" — The New York Times "Martineau's intricate world-building melds traditional high fantasy with a hint of Victorian sensibility, then elevates it with endearing characters and a deliciously complex story that will leave readers anxiously awaiting the second book." ― Publishers Weekly "Fantasy romance at its finest." ― C.L. Wilson, New York Times–bestselling author of Lord of the Fading Lands
