Political Conspiracy. Kidnapping. Seduction. Betrayal. Murder.
The Empire is evolving. The thwarted Magistrate disposed, the newly crowned Emperor Alestera sits atop the Opal Throne. Broken alliances are reforged and secret, insidious bargains struck as those favored by the old regime are supplanted by their rival Houses.
Relocated to Eldegard, Ilora is wholly embraced by her extended family, and though inescapable duty delays her and Gavin's nuptials, the extended separation only strengthens their devotion. Tam is also similarly tested; drawing strength from his adopted sister's example as he wrestles his desires against his future responsibilities.
The Imperial Coronation reunites the lovers, albeit briefly. Abducted and delivered to Duc Eduard in K'Tyal, Ilora agrees to play his pretend prisoner until the enemy stalking her and his innocent family is neutralized. Except this Eduard isn't the man Ilora remembers, and as the captive months bleed to years, a unique and unexpected relationship forms between them.
Meanwhile, a guilt tormented Gavin is determined to rescue Ilora at any cost, and his relentless, winding quest propels him into familiar, murderous depths that irrevocably alter him. He never anticipated Ilora might sacrifice her freedom and willingly align with Eduard, and the repercussions of their tragically violent reunion shake not only the Empire, but the Great Whel itself.
Shadow Dancers is a heart throbbing sequel of desperate longing and festering treason, where a self-sacrifice - born of betrayal and fortified in blood - is defended at devastating cost.
