Alina Starkova never expected too much from life.

He lost his parents during the border wars. As an orphan, there was only one person he could count on. To another little earthling, Mal, his best friend. But now he can't be her support either. They were both conscripted into the army of their country, Mother Ravka. The two young people must go on a life-threatening mission to the Shadow Zone. In this terrible place, otherworldly darkness is the master, where man-eating monsters really abound.

When their military convoy is attacked, all their lives are in danger. But Alina then gives evidence of a mysterious power that even she didn't know about until now. Their miraculous escape has unexpected consequences. She doesn't even stop until the capital, the ruler's court, where the orphaned girl becomes a member of the Grisa brotherhood. Their leader, the mysterious Éjur, believes that Alina is the one whom the long-suffering people of Ravka have been waiting for. According to the supreme wizard, the power hidden in Alina will be able to destroy the Shadow Zone.

In the luxurious whirlwind of the tsar's court, many consider the girl to be Éjur's new favorite, who can hardly fit in without Mal. As his country becomes more and more in danger, a hair-raising conspiracy is revealed to him. You have to decide. Will he face off against the most powerful lords in the realm?
Only his past can give him hope...
Because only this orphan girl can save the future.

"Impressive descriptions, amazing magic and twist after twist!
Among the many memorable adventures, you will not be disappointed,
who expects romance or dangerous encounters."
- Publishers Weekly

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Recommended for ages 14 and up!