Ash falling in the mountains above Dovkey heralds the coming of chaos and destruction. Aela had left her magical training and the throne of Dovkey behind, seeking a peaceful life in a small river town. When her brother's coronation summons her back to the palace, she is met with the same hostility from the Elders and priestesses that she left behind. And as a foreign lord arrives with dangerous claims, Aela's peaceful existence is threatened once again. With the death of the King of Dovkey, Aela is now the only heir to the throne. But her transition to power is complicated by two men vying for her hand, and the Elders, who see an opportunity to dismantle the monarchy. Aela's newly discovered visions warn of a powerful and dark force that seeks to destroy her and her kingdom. "Death and ash. Evil magic brought death and ash. Beware, my queen, it seeks you too." As Aela uncovers allies and secrets, she must also face the terrifying truth that a wielder of twisted magic is determined to destroy her. With the guidance of her people's deity and the acceptance of her destiny, Aela must fight to protect everything she holds dear. Fans of Elise Kova and Grace Draven will love this fantasy romance full of elemental magic and political intrigue.