Emperor Darion II is seeking a common-born bride, and Alleyne would give anything for the chance to entice him, win even a moment alone with him ...... and kill him.Years ago it was Darion who had her mother and father executed, and since that day, Alleyne has plotted vengeance on the man who took her family from her.Now she has her chance.But there's a lot Alleyne hasn't counted on. The court abounds with secrets and plots. Dark magic swirls, and soon she discovers that Darion's death would touch off a devastating war.And when Alleyne comes face to face with the emperor at last, she begins to question the desire for revenge that has become the very core of her being.