Trapped in Veridis under the overbearing guardianship of her grandfather the king, Christine is desperate to find a means of escape in order to return to her war-torn homeland of Altis. Her determination is tested and motives questioned - is her desire based in service to her country, or love for its prince, her lifelong friend and betrothed, Viktor? When she manages to fall into the ill-favor of her uncle and his vicious daughter, Christine’s meticulously planned escape turns into a run for her life, leaving her family and friends to wonder if she is dead or alive.Prince Viktor meanwhile is fighting the war for his kingdom on more than one front. His usurping uncle enacts his most devious scheme yet, rendering Viktor's army unexpectedly outnumbered, and thrusting him unwillingly into a role of absolute leadership. His council- a bunch of self-important and power-hungry old men - refuse to accept his authority, believing his youth invalidates his right to rule over them. When word reaches Viktor of Christine’s disappearance, it feels like all hope he held onto for the life he desired is lost.The future for Christine and Viktor looms uncertain, fraught on all sides - from treacherous council members, traitorous relatives, and unusual alliances. Everything seems to conspire against them. What lengths will Christine go to in order to fulfill her duty to her kingdom and realize her fate to become Viktor’s wife and queen of Altis? How much is Viktor willing to sacrifice to reclaim his throne? Read Less