A sellsword's bargain.

A burgeoning desire.

A future balanced on the point of a blade.

Sellsword Des is traveling alone in a dry and dusty southern land after a spectacular bust-up with her best friend. She's running low on coin, so when a former client, Karina, offers her a job leading her caravan's security through brigand country, it feels like a gift.

Des has done the route before, but she isn't sure about leading solo. She recommends Cap, a rugged old mercenary, to head up the crew. Maybe she'll even learn a thing or two about how to lead in between the delightful distraction of Karina's flirtations and keeping the marauders at bay.

As they head off on their long trip across Rescalin, though, the wheels start to come off Des's plan. The crew is drinking too much, even on duty, and Cap is dismissive of the dangers she identifies. Des worries she's made the wrong call by putting Cap as the lead, and Karina is in her ear, wanting her to take over.

As brigands close in, will Des back the merc she put in charge? Or will she take over—and risk the caravan's safety resting on her blade alone?

If you enjoy badass, sword-wielding women, Australian-inspired settings, sapphic fantasies, and untrustworthy mercenaries, pick up A Hired Blade today and join Des on her journey.