The Elements of the Crown

Only one can win. Neither can afford to lose. No one ever expected a girl from the deadly outer ring of the empire to become so powerful, but Talise did it anyway. Now, she just has to prove her magical skills in a competition before the emperor. It would be easy if it weren’t for a handsome young man named Aaden. He’s lived a privileged life in the luxurious inner ring, but he has his own reasons for needing to win the competition. Their magical training eventually gets supervised by the emperor himself. But as Talise and Aaden explore the palace, dark secrets unfold that threaten the safety of everyone they know. War is brewing. When Talise develops feelings for Aaden, it only complicates her loyalties. If she’s not careful, her own secrets could unravel. Torn between duty and trust, Talise must learn that war destroys all except those who learn to fight back.