Gunrunner empress Hail Bristol must navigate alien politics and deadly plots to prevent an interspecies war, in this second novel in the Farian War space opera trilogy.

In a surprise attack that killed many of her dearest subjects, Hail Bristol, empress of Indrana, has been captured by the Shen -- the most ruthless and fearsome aliens humanity has ever encountered. As she plots her escape, the centuries-long war between her captors and the Farians, their mortal enemies and Indrana's oldest allies, finally comes to a head.

When her captors reveal a shocking vision of the future, Hail must make the unexpectedly difficult decision she's been avoiding: whether to back the Shen or the Farians.

Staying neutral is no longer an option. Will Hail fight? Or will she fall?

Praise for the Farian War trilogy:

''An exciting dose of space opera and political intrigue peppered with hard choices. Highly recommended.'' Booklist

''Action and emotion-packed, folding political tension, personal relationships, and trauma into a vivid space opera that does not pull any punches.'' Library Journal

''A rare balance of action . . . tension, and quiet moments, keeping pages turning while deepening the portraits of Hail and the friends and foes around her.'' Publishers Weekly

''Perfectly executed . . . Science fiction with brains, and a buckload of heart.'' The Eloquent Page