As heir to the Frozen Crown of Seravesh, Askia loves her people. Yet her country is being overrun by the Roven Empire, spearheaded by her cousin's dishonest claim to the crown and Emperor Radovan'sdestructive army. While her faithful Black Wolves have continued to disrupt the battles, Askia needs support before Seravesh is taken over completely. Looking for help from southern neighbor Vishir and its emperor, Amaan, means walking into another empire filled with secrets of its own. Yet the biggest secret is kept by Askia, for she holds magic that could mean the worst for her and her people—but this magic may be the only thing between her and the fall of Seravesh. Kelly creates a princess who knows more about battle formations than court dances, forced to decide how much responsibilitymust balance between the person and the ruler. VERDICT Kelly's debut is a vivid epic fantasy of high political and personal stakes. Fans of Jennifer Estep's "Crown of Shards" series will find much to love in the first of a duology.—Kristi Chadwick, Massachusetts Lib. Syst., Northampton

Set in a land where magic is a rarity, Kelly's riveting debut and duology launch follows a princess with a dangerous secret who must save her country from invaders. Princess Askia, rightful heir to the Frozen Crown of Seravesh, has spent months with her men in battle against the invading soldiers of the Rovan Empire. Unable to defend her realm from the advancing Rovans, Askia sails south to Vishir to seek aid from its leader, Emperor Armaan. But life among soldiers leaves Askia unprepared for the decorum and political games of the Vishiri court. With enemies both inside and outside the castle walls and her actions under constant scrutiny, Askia becomes enmeshed in court life. She fears that one wrong move will expose the unique magical ability she's kept hidden her entire life—and which could spell danger for both her people and herself. Filled with magic, war, and intrigue, this thrilling high fantasy questions how much a ruler should be willing to sacrifice for the sake of duty. Vivid worldbuilding, high stakes, and just a hint of romance propel the twisty plot to a cliffhanger finale. Readers will be on the edges of their seats as they await the next installment. Agent: Jennifer Udden, New Leaf Literary. (Jan.)