In the aftermath of a devastating plague, a young lord is determined to discover the truth behind a mysterious attempt to assassinate the young queen in this historical fantasy standalone, inspired by the Black Plague. Three years ago, Lord Cassia was entrusted with a mission by the king - and disappeared. Now, having survived a prison cell and a merciless illness, Cas wants only to return to home and forget past horrors.

But home is not what he remembers. His castle has become a refuge for the royal court. And they have brought their enemies with them.

When an assassin targets those closest to the queen, Cas is drawn into a search for a killer . . .

one that leads him to form an unexpected bond with Lena, a brilliant historian. Cas and Lena soon realize that who is behind the attacks is far less important than why. They must look to the past, following the trail of a terrible secret - one that could threaten the kingdom's newfound peace and plunge it back into war.