Growing up in her village of Terleigh, Eretreya Lockwood has lived a sheltered life. Born Shadow Kissed, shes destined to be given to the Shadow Borne in exchange for the continued prosperity and protection of her district. She yearns to travel and see the wonders of her realm. Despite her desire to forge her own destiny, fate has other plans for her future.

One night, a cruel prank by her nemesis leaves Reyas life in danger and sets in motion a series of events that will change everything. Torn from her home and everyone she knows and loves; Reya is forced to make difficult choices and face harsh truths.

Taken to Shadow Valley, where she will prepare for the reaping ceremony, Reya reluctantly spends time in the company of the Lord Commander and must fight the growing attraction between them both. The more time she spends with him and his people, the more she begins to doubt everything she once believed to be true about the Shadow Borne. And she begins to question what she thought to be true about herself.

As secrets are revealed, loyalties will be tested, and armies will awaken.

Trapped in a battle between warring realms, can one girl fight her destiny without losing everything?