The first book in an epic heart-pounding fantasy trilogy inspired by ancient Indian history and Hindu mythology, perfect for fans of Sabaa Tahir and Renée Ahdieh.

* A Book Riot Most Anticipated Novel of 2019 * B&N Top 50 Most Anticipated Novels *

A broken bond. A dying land. A cat-and-mouse game that can only end in bloodshed.

Esha lost everything in the royal coup&;and as the legendary rebel known as the Viper, she&;s made the guilty pay. Now she&;s been tasked with her most important mission to date: taking down the ruthless General Hotha.

Kunal has been a soldier since childhood. His uncle, the general, has ensured that Kunal never strays from the path&;even as a part of Kunal longs to join the outside world, which has only been growing more volatile.

When Esha and Kunal&;s paths cross one fated night, an impossible chain of events unfolds. Both the Viper and the soldier think they&;re calling the shots, but they&;re not the only players moving the pieces.

As the bonds that hold their land in order break down and the sins of the past meet the promise of a new future, both the soldier and the rebel must decide where their loyalties lie: with the lives they&;ve killed to hold on to or with the love that&;s made them dream of something more.