The second book in New York Times bestselling author Marieke Nijkamp's immersive medieval fantasy trilogy! A shadowy conspiracy threatens the city, and two determined misfits must uncover the secret plot?and reveal their own secrets?in order to save everyone. For fans of B. B. Alston, Soman Chainani, and Tamora Pierce.

It's only been a few months since Princess Adelisa, who goes by Ash, returned to the city of Kestrel's Haven after her abduction by the treasonous group of nobles called the Larks. Ash's best friend, Splinter, is slowly advancing in her squire training and feeling more protective of Ash than ever.

But Splinter and Ash's work is not nearly done. Anyone could be a Lark, and it seems that everyone is hiding a secret. When the queen's spies learn that the Larks plan to disrupt the city's Harvest Festival, Splinter and Ash are determined to do their part to stop it. They'll face traitors, assassins, and a ticking clock to prevent everything from going up in flames.