From the multi-award-winning author of The Briar Book of the Dead, comes an enthralling gothic fairy tale of witches, lady knights, twisted conspiracies and a coveted enchanted throne.

Set in Slatter's much-loved Sourdough universe, this dark magical fantasy is perfect for fans of The Everlasting by Alix E. Harrow and Nettle & Bone by T. Kingfisher.

Her Grace, the True Princess Emlyn Mentoras, has come home after twenty years. The sole survivor of the slaughtered royal family of Five Ports, her life's been dedicated to winning back her kingdom from the vicious Woodcutter Kings. Overseen by the Beldame Lanike she's learned the ways of sword and shield, to rule and also - perhaps surprisingly - to show mercy. Emlyn wants the city to live again, for her people to prosper and, most of all, to follow in the footsteps of her idol, St Callwen, Five Ports' founder.

But Emlyn's got a secret that will blow her hard-won existence apart... When the horrors of her past catch up with her, she finds herself on a journey into the underworld with a loyal knight by her side seeking an elusive crown. A deadly quest that will test all her skill and courage and reveal a betrayal at the heart of the kingdom.

A deeply engrossing, richly told dark fantasy of a blighted monarchy, a stolen destiny and a young woman's difficult search for her own path.