Danger threatens the stability of the galaxy in this intriguing second novel in The Serrano Legacy—from Hugo Award-winning and New York Times bestselling author Elizabeth Moon.

After narrowly escaping from a twisted cabal that organized hunting parties using human prey, ex-Regular Space Service officer Heris Serrano and her wealthy employer Lady Cecelia must transport a special passenger home.

He is Prince Gerel—first in line to the throne. Unfortunately, he was also a somewhat unknowing participant in the "hunt," and his family is quite eager to avoid a scandal. But Lady Cecelia notices that Gerel is not himself. In fact, he seems mentally impaired, as if he's been drugged, but the prince's possible poisoning is only the beginning.

When Heris and Cecelia arrive at the royal stronghold of Rockhouse Major, they are pulled into a political conspiracy rooted in pettiness and desires for revenge. As outside agents make moves to unseat the throne, Cecelia is incapacitated by a bitter enemy from her past.

Without the protection of her benefactor, Heris and her skeleton crew must navigate the perilous halls of power to rescue Cecelia, the prince, and possibly the universe…



Elizabeth Moon grew up on the Texas border, served three years active duty in the USMC (1968-71), and now lives with her husband of almost sixty years, also a veteran, near Austin, Texas. She has written more than twenty-five novels, including Nebula Award winner The Speed of Dark, Hugo Award finalist Remnant Population, the Vatta's War and Serrano Legacy space opera series, and the books of the enduring epic The Deed of Paksenarrion, multiply awarded as one of the 100 Best Fantasies of All Time. A New York Times bestselling author, her work has been published in twenty languages and sold four million copies. When not writing, Moon enjoys photographing native plants and wildlife, knitting socks, and cooking.