In this epic sequel to the Sunday Times bestseller, The Foxglove King, the glittering and dangerous world of the Sainted King's royal court is forever changed by Prince Bastian's ascension to the throne - and the dark forces gathering beneath it. The corrupt king August is dead. Prince Bastian has seized the throne and raised Lore to his right-hand side. Together they plan to cut out the rot from the heart of the royal court and help the people of Dellaire. But not everyone is happy with the changes. The nobles are sowing dissent and the Kirythean Empire is beating down their door. Even Prince Bastian has changed. No longer the hopeful, rakish, charismatic man Lore knows and loves, instead he's become reckless, domineering and cold. With Bastian's coronation fast approaching and enemies whispering on all sides, Lore must figure out how to protect herself, her prince and her country before they all come crumbling down and whatever dark power has been creeping through the catacombs is unleashed.