Michael Solari, a boy of sixteen, is the heir to the Raval Kingdom. After his father's untimely death, Michael finds himself under increasing pressure to choose a wife and ascend the throne-both of which he feels unprepared for. Making matters worse, dark forces are at work in the kingdom and lands beyond-forces that wish to dispose of Michael and take his crown for themselves. After an attempt on his life, Michael is left in a state of paranoia and unease. Who can he trust? His mother? His guards? The mysterious witch that shows up at the castle? His uncles? His tutors? The young ladies who hope to win his heart? The peasant girl he takes a liking to? Anyone? If Michael wants to survive, he'll need to find out. Michael is not the only person in danger. Troubling times are in store for his family members, acquaintances, and the rest of the kingdom's residents. Unbeknownst to them, a foreign army is preparing to descend upon their lands in a sweeping conquest that could leave few structures standing-and fewer people alive. In the Raval Kingdom, everyone has secrets, everyone has motives, and no one is safe.