USA Today Bestseller! Ristéard Roald is the Grand Ruler of Elpidios, a planet that is slowly dying without the Blood Stones needed to absorb the radiation gradually destroying its stratosphere. He has sworn to do whatever it takes to protect his world and his people, but time is running out.
Hope comes from an unexpected source, the Kassis. They have found a way to replicate the Blood Stones needed to save his world, but his first dealings with a traitorous Kassisan has left a deep distrust for the species.
Ricki Bailey is used to dealing with diplomats and handling complex situations. After all, as the daughter of the owners of Cirque de Magik, the most spectacular Circus to the Stars, she spends much of her time organizing their trips to foreign countries. Her life changes when her mother and father decide to take the circus to another star system!
If she thought learning new laws and customs was going to be a challenge, it's nothing compared to the sudden interest she's getting from a huge blue alien known as the Grand Ruler! Ricki finds herself thinking words she didn't even realize were in her vocabulary, most of them not in the least polite.
Ristéard is stunned when the great Empress, the strange alien female, foretold as his world's savior, appears. He is even more astonished when she refuses his attentions! With the life of his planet at stake, not to mention his own peace of mind and body, he will do whatever is necessary to ensure she stays by his side.
Yet, there are forces working against him and Ricki. Dangers and traitors among his own council threaten them both. It will take all of Ristéard's resources, and a few unexpected allies, to complete the journey ahead of them.
Internationally acclaimed S.E. Smith presents a new action-packed story full of romance and adventure. Brimming with her signature humor, vivid scenes, and beloved characters, this book is sure to be another fan favorite!
