The final thrilling volume of the story which began with the Sunday Times bestselling THE COLLARBOUND sees war come to the mages - a war that may cost them everything to win.

Freed from his prison cell, the former slave known as Tatters is finally ready to face his past. Now his true nature is known to all, he can use his Lightborn powers freely. But they come at a price, and his loyalties remain conflicted. The renegades about to attack the city used to be his companions, and both sides have treated him badly. He will have to decide which side to choose.

Isha had thought Tatters was dead, and is overjoyed to see him return. But her master, one of the most powerful mages, has a past with them both, one which might make their reunion impossible. The mages remain divided, and in order to survive they will need to come together, and put aside past arguments. They too have a choice.

And outside the city, the renegades continue to advance. Destruction of the mages is their only goal, and nobody knows if they can be stopped...