In the third book of this clever epic-fantasy trilogy, Rasp and his fellowship will defeat the dark magic corrupting them once and for all . . . or not.

With the Realm fractured, the outlaws of the Iron Ridge are threatened from all sides. Aided by his mentor, Whisper, runaway heir-and newly ordained witch-Rasp Stoneclaw finally has a chance to see more of the world, beyond the ridge. He'd like to survive and keep his wits about him, but the darkness inside him has other ideas . . . including, unfortunately, cannibalism.

Meanwhile, Ex-Protector of the Realm Oralia Dawnsight is struggling to come to terms with her new role as a traitor to the broken empire. Once, she dreamed of a glorious retirement. Now, she and the remnants of her Faithful Four-Ralizak, Ellisar, and Snaglebrag-are stuck babysitting some unexpected guests: Rasp's just-slightly-annoying siblings, Mul and Lingon, along with a former enemy, currently trapped in a pendant around Oralia's neck and slowly consuming her with its dark magic.

Former witch hunter Daana Lazuli, on the other hand, is sick of lying down for the Realm. Seeking a place to belong, she turns to the notorious Sons and Daughters of Resistance, hoping to find a cure for the growing darkness. Though she's given up magic to keep the rot in her blood from spreading further, she knows, deep down, that she may need to use it again at any moment.

Now, Rasp, Oralia, Daana, and their friends must band together to save one another from the threat of dark magic. The only thing that can save them from darkness, after all, is family.