Simple desires don’t promise a simple life.

Before my latest birthday, I wanted three things: to fall in love, grow wings, and find my biological parents. In the weeks since I turned twenty-nine, I’ve discovered my father was a magic-devouring tyrant, my half-brother wanted me dead, and a blood witch held the power behind the dragon king’s throne.

Now, the witch is dead, my father’s behind bars, and my brother swears he’s ready to turn over a new leaf.

Still, my life isn’t simple. I know Striža and I are fated mates, though some believe a dragon and an owl-shifting veela should never share the same bed. Even Striža has her doubts.

I can work with doubt. What I can’t work with is deception.

Making matters worse, I mishandled a magical object, bringing an evil force into my family’s home and setting off another cycle of destruction and death.

Even though I was raised in a family skilled in artifice, I know nothing about guile. Is my desire for a simple life my affliction? Is this the Achilles Heel that will keep me from finally toppling the dragon king?

Coralie Moss