Lilian survived the first half of her Trial by Ordeal.
A year and a half remain, and with every success, she becomes more valuable to Blooded Dagger and more dangerous to those who oppose it. Powerful enemies have taken notice of the disgraced apprentice who keeps disrupting their plans, and some are willing to destroy her to protect their ambitions.
As hidden enemies move against Blooded Dagger, she uncovers the trail of a traitor within Serengeti, and a conspiracy that reaches to the highest levels of the cartel. The closer she comes to the truth, the more dangerous her position becomes.
Especially when Grey Spear's powerful preeminence turns his attention toward her.
Lucius Mercio has spent years battling rivals for control of Serengeti. Ruthless, brilliant, and feared throughout the Twelve Systems, he has always known that power comes with enemies. What he did not anticipate was how far those enemies would go to strike at the woman under his protection.
Or how much she would come to matter.
As betrayal, obsession, and political intrigue collide, Lilian and Lucius must fight to preserve not only Blooded Dagger's future but the fragile trust they have built together.
Because in the Twelve Systems, justice and vengeance are rarely the same thing.
And some transgressions demand a reckoning.
Crowned heart. "One hungers for more after turning the last page. It is not often that a world so complex and strange can be presented in such a masterful and engaging way." InD'tale Magazine, February 2018
5-Stars. "The world that Manetti has created has so many interesting nuances. . . My absolute favorite part of this series is the strength of Lillian. She is not to be underestimated." Paranormal Romance Guild, 2020.
THE TWELVE SYSTEMS CHRONICLES
The Cartel: The Apprentice, Volume 1
Bright Star: The Apprentice, Volume 2
Transgressions: The Apprentice, Volume 3
Fortuna: The Apprentice, Volume 4
Serengeti Valor: The Apprentice, Volume 5
Nightingale: The Apprentice, Volume 6
Bond Proof: The Apprentice, Volume 7
Chalice Bearer: Thornraven, Volume 1
Shield Bearer: Thornraven, Volume 2
Thorn Bearer: Thornraven, Volume 3
