The Afterward

"I love this book so very much."—Robin LaFevers, New York Times bestselling author of the His Fair Assassin trilogy

Romantic high fantasy from the bestselling author of Star Wars: Ahsoka and Exit, Pursued by a Bear.

Its been a year since the mysterious godsgem cured Cadriums king and ushered in what promised to be a new golden age. The heroes who brought home the gem are renowned in story and song, but for two fellows on the quest, peace and prosperity dont come easily.

Apprentice Knight Kalanthe Ironheart wasnt meant for heroism so early in life, and while she has no intention of giving up the notoriety shes earned, reputation doesnt pay her bills. Kalanthe may be forced to betray not her kingdom or her friends, but her own heart as she seeks a stable future for herself and those she loves.

Olsa Rhetsdaughter was never meant for heroism at all. Beggar and thief, she lived hand to mouth on the streets until fortune--or fate--pulled her into Kalanthes orbit. And now shes reluctant to leave it. Even more alarmingly, her fame has made her profession difficult, and a choice between poverty and the noose isnt much of a choice at all.

Both girls think their paths are laid out, but the godsgem isnt quite done with them and that new golden age isnt a sure thing yet.

In a tale both sweepingly epic and intensely personal, Kalanthe and Olsa fight to maintain their newfound independence and to find their way back to each other.