NOTE: This is book 3 of a series that should be read in order. It can also be read in tandem with book 4, Nemesis Rising. It could be love...If they don't kill each other first. The Assassin Talyn, "The Raptor" of Avril, is the deadliest assassin on the Arystrian continent. With her abilities to port between two places and change her appearance at will, she can take out her marks before they realize she's there, then blend back into the crowd. Her latest job sounds easy enough. Gather information for the former King of Rowe while working as a servant at Tide's End until called upon to kill the lord and lady of the house. The problem? Her targets are two of the most formidable perimortals in existence: a mind wraith people call the Nemesis Incarnate, and the first known syphon in four centuries. But that's not all. There's also him. The Mercenary Samhail is the center of attention whenever he walks into a room. He's the biggest, most dangerous person anywhere he goes, and he's used to dealing with the risks and challenges that come with being a warrior of the fiercest reputation. None of that has prepared him to face the lethal threat hiding right under his nose, though. When the beautiful assassin is unmasked, Samhail is torn between wanting to kill her and just wanting her. As the threat from Rowe continues to intensify and loyalties become uncertain, Samhail will learn just how dangerous The Raptor of Avril can be. Content Advisory: This book includes mature (18+) subjects that may be upsetting to some readers. For a complete list of triggers and tropes, please see the book page on the author's website at www.karencpmcdermott.com.