In the Shadow of Fate (Shadows and Light #5)

“Can you imagine something so awful that would strip away a person’s love for their twin?”
- Shallah, Shadow Rising

Secrets and lies. Sacrifice and betrayal. Coercion and manipulation.

Ryker and River's story unfolds from childhood to where our journey began. Two brothers born from violence, who cleave together in a bond of love strong enough to survive anything. From an early age, Ryker’s magic manifests itself as a millennial power. Their father, Ronan, draws them into his sphere of influence and will do anything to use Ryker for his own gain. As Ronan’s grip tightens, River becomes desperate to shield his brother. The choices he makes, and the secrets he keeps, have profound repercussions for both brothers.

The end of Marina's oracle draws near, and unfolds in a way she never expected. The Fate’s life becomes entangled with the twins in a synchronicity that is devastating in its cruelty. Defiance of her god becomes her only choice to protect herself and the twins from a fate determined to destroy them all.

Ryker and River escape to the Academy, but Ronan’s reach is vast. Ryker struggles to control his magic, but he also learns Ronan isn’t the only one who sees him for the power and influence he will have. River is caught in his own web of lies, unable to escape a spiral of deceit and violence. They each discover trust can be misplaced, with consequences that will alter them forever.

Marina is desperate to help, but is unprepared for the fate her god has planned for them all. The sacrifice she made centuries ago may be too little to save them, and herself.