Once, only her own life hung in the balance... When Yelena was a poison taster, her life was simpler. Now, she's become a vital part of the balance of power between rival countries Ixia and Sitia. Through wits and magic, she's able to keep the peace in both lands—and protect her relationship with Valek. But as old rivalries begin to emerge, Yelena discovers sinister plots that threaten to unravel the carefully won peace. Valek's job and his life are in danger. As Yelena tries to uncover the scope of these plots, she faces a new challenge: her magic is blocked. She must keep that a secret—or her enemies will discover just how vulnerable she really is—while searching for who or what is responsible for neutralizing her powers. Her days as a poison taster are long gone. But without her magic, Yelena must once again rely on wits and skill to survive...