Author Description

The tsar's duel ends with dire consequences for its competitors in this New York Times–bestselling sequel to The Crown's Game. Magic is growing, shadows are rising, and the throne is at stake . . . Russia is on the brink of great change. Pasha's coronation approaches, and Vika is now the Imperial Enchanter, but the role she once coveted may be more difficult—and dangerous—than she ever expected. Pasha is grappling with his own problems—his legitimacy is in doubt, the girl he loves loathes him, and he believes his best friend is dead. When a challenger to the throne emerges—and with the magic in Russia growing rapidly—Pasha must do whatever it takes to keep his position and protect his kingdom. For Nikolai, the ending of the Crown's Game stung deeply. Although he just managed to escape death, Nikolai remains alone, a shadow hidden in a not-quite-real world of his own creation. But when he's given a second chance at life—tied to a dark price—Nikolai must decide just how far he's willing to go to return to the world. With revolution on the rise, dangerous new magic rearing up, and a tsardom up for the taking, Vika, Nikolai, and Pasha must fight—or face the destruction of not only their world but also themselves. Perfect for fans of  Red Queen and  Shadow and Bone.  Praise for The Crown's Game "A captivating tale that deftly transports readers to a mysterious and fascinating fantasy world, one teeming with hidden magic and fiery romance." —Sabaa Tahir, #1 New York Times–bestselling author of An Ember in the Ashes "The true wizardry is in the atmosphere—Skye crafts a Russia of magic and elegance, depicting St. Petersburg in such a breath-taking way that you'll swear you're standing on the banks of the Neva and dancing through the halls of the Winter Palace." —Sara Raasch, author of the Snow Like Ashes trilogy