Death is breaking all the rules. Nia Amort is about to rise as Death, the third horsewoman. Her powers so far have been few and far between. Mostly dead people, dead people, and more dead people. But the Fates and the gods are out to kill her, a soul devourer stalks her dreams, and she owes Loki way too many favors. Worst of all, if she doesn't gain her abilities soon, she's going to lose her daughter all over again. Ex-cop Mal Quilan is used to being the bad guy, growing up in the shadow of his perfect twin, and judged for his Fomorian, half-demon bloodlines. But he's always had a soft spot for Nia, and when he's given the chance to protect her until she can rise as Death, he takes it. Sure, he'll have to ignore the old feelings she arouses in him, and there's a high likelihood of his own death. But maybe, there's a chance for redemption too … if the gods don't kill them first.