Senara, a warrior who has been called from the front lines to join the King's Guard, has a huge secret that would cost her life. The night before she reports for duty she has a casual fling with a guy in a bar who turns out to be her new boss. The draw between them is unnatural and strong and I love the tension in each scene between them.

The side characters are good as well, especially Senara's 'sister'. I wish there was more focus on the side characters as an overall view of the world, but that is only a minor complaint.

Overall I'd give this 4/5 stars, only losing a star because I felt it was a little rushed and I think starting at her arrival in the capital with very little flashbacks to her time at the front left Senara's character feeling undeveloped and a little unbelievable. I will still be eagerly awaiting book 2, though!