For fans of The Poppy War , The Atlas Six , and The Cruel Prince. Power. Obsession. The terrible price of survival. Desdemona Althenia has spent her life in the shadows, hiding volatile magic that could kill her if unleashed. Born into the lowest ranks of society, she's survived by her wits-and her willingness to lie. But when fate traps her within the brutal walls of Visnatus Academy, power is finally within reach. Prince Lucian Aibek lives beneath the weight of a crumbling empire and a family that thrives on control. Desdemona's fire may be his freedom-or his downfall. As their fates entwine, Desdemona and Lucian must decide how much of themselves they're willing to sacrifice-and whether wielding power is worth the price of becoming a monster. A dark, emotionally immersive fantasy for readers 17+. Includes violence, grief, and psychological intensity.