Kresten Westermark is a prince with a problem. Forced back into the telepathic Shadow Force by his emperor, he's been ordered to his wife's home planet to investigate her father and stop a potential rebellion that could destabilize the Star Realm. Politically and professionally, he can't fail. Personally, he must.

Ryllis Westermark—officially Her Imperial Highness Princess Amaryllis since her marriage—couldn't be more unhappy to be returning to Cereth after she was forced away over accusations of treason. Or was it such a mistake? Only her father can tell her what really happened, and he hasn't forgiven for her anything.

But when familial mysteries and forbidden woodland magic bubble to the surface, both will learn the treachery on Cereth runs deep—and it might not be directed at the Star Realm after all.