He faces a ruthless king to save his people. She stands between death and her family.

The second book in USA Today bestselling author Alisha Klapheke's Uncommon World series brings the characters of Waters of Salt and Sin into the Empire's capital, preparing for the epic third novel, Plains of Sand and Steel.

Calev rides across the desert to his audience with the ruler, a man famed for his mercurial behavior and murderous deeds. If he can impress the ruler, Calev's people will continue to live in peace. If not, they go to war, a fight they will certainly lose.

Avi trails Calev, a message tearing at her soul. A killing fever sweeps through their hometown. Countless are already dead, rotting in piles in the street. Kinneret too has caught the sickness. And Avi believes Calev is the only one who can save her.

They don't have the time to even attempt both miracles.

They'll have to choose.

Fight for an entire people's fate or be there for a loved one's final breath.