One mission. One curse. No escape. Zaira needs a weapon to save her sister from a soul-devouring curse. To cross The Shallows — a treacherous realm of broken magic, shifting paths, and deadly creatures — she must trust Thane Valkor: sorcerer, assassin, and walking red flag. His name clears rooms. His magic kills quietly. Whatever he's truly after, it isn't salvation. But Zaira has no choice. Dislike to Lovers • Grumpy × Sunshine • Epic Quest • Morally Grey Hero "Shanora Williams weaves a spell in words and world building to create a story that is pure magic!" — Cecy Robson, New York Times bestselling author "The unrelenting chemistry between Thane and Zaira kept me glued to the page." — Rachel Howzell Hall, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author "A classic fantasy quest with cute and cosy vibes, found family, whimsical world-building, and a tension-filled romance that will have you kicking your feet." — Nisha J. Tuli, USA Today bestselling author