Step into a universe where duty is a double-edged sword honed by passion. Love isn't just a battlefield—it's an entire galaxy.
The Cartel
She would give anything to protect her family... including her mind and body.
Lilian's bright future was destroyed with a single, devastating stroke—her family name erased, their cartouche melted, and their property forfeited. Destitute and desperate, she is determined to survive and protect what remains of her family—no matter what she must do.
Lucius Mercio is the preeminent warrior of his cartouche, and the cartel it dominates; the Serengeti Group. Ruthless, clever, and ambitious, Lucius' wealth, influence, and power are exceeded by few within the Twelve Systems. It is not sufficient. Lucius needs Lilian... and he needs her alive.
Lilian has agreed to become Lucius' apprentice. For three years, he will train her for a position in the cartels. In return, Lilian will yield him absolute control of her mind and body. It is a bargain with the devil and one she hopes she does not regret.
Thrust together, the two will face a future filled with uncertainties. Lucius understands the dangers, but does Lilian?
Bright Star
Her path to redemption depends on one man.
Lilian's trials have barely begun in a galaxy that is both exhilarating and terrifying. If she is to avoid execution for her father's crimes and protect what is left of her family, Lilian must embrace her one chance at survival as the apprentice of the powerful warrior Lucius Mercio. As dangerous as he is intriguing, the man she hopes will be her salvation, could be her downfall. To survive, she will need to discover reserves of courage, wit, and determination.
Lucius intends to catapult his cartel to the heights of power and Lilian's role in his plans is critical to his ambitions. As his rivals increase in number and ferocity, Lucius is torn between his growing fascination with Lilian and the recognition that she may be his weakest link. Lucius will do whatever it takes to protect Lilian from those who would use her... but, who will protect him?
Lilian's growing attraction to Lucius is as unexpected as it is dangerous when secrets she thought well-hidden begin to emerge and threaten to destroy Lucius' slowly developing trust.
Journey deeper into the Twelve Systems as a love that is forbidden, yet unstoppable, draws Lilian and Lucius deeper into a world fraught with danger, intrigue, and a touch of the inexplicable.
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
