Alexander "Xander" Bane understands he is now the reason Winfyre exists. His presence alone keeps most threats at bay. Something he takes no pride in – as its leader, he does what has to be done and that's the end of it. Even if it means he has to be alone for the rest of his life, his shifted form must remain a secret. A secret found out by accident by Tiani Elkhadi, who spies the dragon in the woods.

After nearly years of precautions, Xander has no idea what he should do. As icy as his heart has become, he can’t bring himself to kill her in cold blood. With no other choice, he claims her. Only Xander has no idea he’s playing into enemy hands. That Tiani was sent there to destroy Winfyre from the inside. To make it an example. To start a new war.

Tiani’s life might hang in the balance, but for the first time in years, she’s free. Even if she’s lying through her teeth and fighting desperately against a dragon mating bond. As her deadline approaches, will Tiani give into the monster who has his claws at her throat? Or will she sacrifice everything – her freedom, her new family, and mate – to save Winfyre and the rest of their new, strange world?