Teris and Syrena's wedding was supposed to prevent a war between their two kingdoms, but fate intervened with a much darker plan. Now Teris, Syrena, and dozens of others are trapped in an isolated keep, surrounded by a vicious army led by a cunning, inhuman war shaman. Teris must lead an uneasy alliance to victory over their relentless foe, if he doesn't get killed in the fighting first. However, the young groom has allies at his side - starting with his new bride - but can the two of them stand together against foes both inside and outside the keep? When all seems lost, Teris risks everything on a strike into the enemy's camp, and takes a vital first step toward becoming the leader of his kingdom.

John Helfers is an author and editor currently living in Green Bay, Wisconsin.