The aristocracy is making a run for the throne in this star-crossed paranormal romance entry in J.R. Ward’s “delicious, erotic, and thrilling” (Nicole Jordan, New York Times bestselling author) #1 New York Times bestselling Black Dagger Brotherhood series.

When Lyric goes out for a night in Caldwell, New York, a brush with death is not on her bingo card—and she’s totally not ready for the man who risks his own life by shielding her with his very big, very enticing body. Her family, especially her sire Qhuinn, are so relieved she’s okay, but afterward, all she can think about is her mysterious savior.

Even though humans and vampires are not supposed to mix, Lyric seeks out Devlin, and they are immediately drawn to each other. Her near-death experience gives her a fresh thirst for life. Devlin finds it impossible to continue his loner ways whenever he looks into her eyes. As passion ignites, both have their own reasons for keeping things short-term—and that’s before a betrayal that cuts to the core tears them apart.

In the end, as the Black Dagger Brotherhood hunts a traitor, and terrible truths are revealed, Lyric has to decide whether the forbidden can ever be forgiven…in the name of true love.