Power is never free. The darkness always takes its price.In the fractured world of Valúnor, the ancient Crown of Thaldrion-a relic of unimaginable power-lies shattered, its twelve shards scattered across the realm. When the ambitious sorcerer Malakar makes a pact with a shadow beyond the veil, the race to reforge the crown-and claim dominion over the world-begins.But he is not the only one who walks the edge of darkness.From cursed dwarven ruins to the desolate Ashen Wastes, a band of unlikely allies must battle undead horrors, twisted magic, and ancient evils to stop him. Among them are Kara Skyward, a towering warrior of Cloud Giant blood who wields the soulforged axe Stormcleaver; Pawleaf, a feline Myrrax thief caught in a deadly game of betrayal; Lirael, a cunning elven mage whose green fire could either save or destroy; and Fizzlewick, a sharp-tongued gnome alchemist whose potions might just tip the balance.As monsters rise and kingdoms fall, they must risk everything in a battle not just for survival-but for the very soul of the world.Darkly epic and richly imagined, Bargain With the Darkness is perfect for fans of epic quests, sword and sorcery, magic and monsters, and strong female protagonists. If you love Brandon Sanderson, Joe Abercrombie, or Sarah J. Maas, this thrilling dark fantasy adventure is for you.