Criticallyacclaimed author Nina Varela delivers a stunning sequel to the richly imaginedqueer epic fantasy Crier's War, which SLJ called "perfect forfans of Sarah J. Maas's Throne of Glass." Fortoo long, Automae havelorded over the kingdom of Rabu, oppressing its human citizens. But the humanrevolution has risen, and at its heart is Ayla. Once a handmaiden, now afugitive, Ayla narrowly escaped the palace of Lady Crier, the girl she would'vekilled if she hadn't fallen in love first. NowAyla has pledged her allegiance to Queen Junn, who can help accomplish thehuman rebellion's ultimate goal: destroy the Iron Heart. Without its power, the Automae will be weakened to thepoint of extinction. Ayla wants to succeed, but can't shake the strong feelings she's developed for Crier. Andunbeknownst to her, Crier has also fled the palace, taking up among travelingrebels, determined to find and protect Ayla. Evenas their paths collide, nothing can prepare them for the dark secret underlyingthe Iron Heart.