After escaping the kingdom, Evangeline Ardonis once again confronts death-in a trial to fight for her innocence in front of the Atiacan empire-but after running into someone from her past, her criminal reputation is the least of her concerns. As the truth behind the missing persons and Evangeline's mark unravels, Evangeline fights with herself over the desire to learn more about her past or to protect the citizens of Atiaca. Wrangling with the newfound beast that now co-exists inside of her, she also scrambles for self-control and to protect her dark secret from the one she loves. Now labeled as a traitor prince, Ceven LuRogue fends off assassins and enemies at every turn. He vowed to protect Evangeline, even if it means turning his friends and potential allies against him, but when faced with the promise of taking back the very country that shunned him, will he still risk losing what few allies he has? And will he be able to protect Evangeline, even against herself? War is looming on the horizon, instigated not only by the newfound king of Peredia but also by something far darker lurking within the hearts of both countries' citizens. When truths are revealed and innocent lives are at stake, Ceven and Evangeline's bond will be put to the test as they face the worst of what's to come.