Under the rule of a usurper king, the realm of Skala has suffered famine, plague, and invasion. But now the time for the rightful heir has come, a return to the tradition of warrior queens. And the Lightbearer''s prophecy is to be upheld at last: so long as a daughter of the royal line defends and rules, Skala will never be subjugated.

Now a mystical fire has burned away the male body known as Prince Tobin, revealing Princess Tam r, a girl on the verge of womanhood--and a queen ready to claim her birthright after a life in disguise under the protection of wizards and witches. But will her people, her army--and the friends she was forced to deceive--accept her? Worse, will the crown''s rival heir, friend to Tobin, turn foe to Tam r, igniting civil war in a fierce battle for Skala?

BONUS AUDIO: Includes an exclusive introduction written and recorded by author Lynn Flewelling.