A scorching forbidden love threatens to tear a rift through the Black Dagger Brotherhood in J. R. Ward's newest novel in the #1 New York Times bestselling series.

Xcor, leader of the Band of Bastards, convicted of treason against the Blind King, is facing a brutal interrogation and torturous death at the hands of the Black Dagger Brotherhood. Yet after a life marked by cruelty and evil deeds, he accepts his soldier's fate, his sole regret the loss of a sacred female who was never his: the Chosen Layla.

Layla alone knows the truth that will save Xcor's life. But revealing his sacrifice and his hidden heritage will expose them both and destroy everything Layla holds dear - even her role of mother to her precious young. Torn between love and loyalty, she must summon the courage to stand up against the only family she has for the only man she will ever love. Yet even if Xcor is somehow granted a reprieve, he and Layla would have to confront a graver challenge: bridging the chasm that divides their worlds without paving the way for a future of even greater war, desolation and death.

As a dangerous old enemy returns to Caldwell, and the identity of a new deity is revealed, nothing is certain or safe in the world of the Black Dagger Brotherhood, not even true love . . . or destinies that have long seemed set in stone.

About the Author
After graduating from law school J.R. Ward began working in health care in Boston and spent many years as chief of staff for one of the premier academic medical centres in the US. She lives in Kentucky with her husband.

Reviews
Hot, sexy, unique, intriguingly wicked. J.R. Ward and her Black Dagger Brotherhood series never fail to satisfy! -- Christine Feehan
Ward wields a commanding voice perfect for the genre . . . Intriguing, adrenaline-pumping . . . Fans of L. A. Banks, Laurell K. Hamilton and Sherrilyn Kenyon will add Ward to their must-read list * Booklist *
These vampires are hot, and the series only gets hotter . . . so hot it gave me shivers * Vampire Genre *
J.R. Ward's unique band of brothers is to die for. I love this series! -- New York Times bestselling author, Suzanne Brockmann
It's tough to keep raising the bar in a series, but the phenomenal Ward manages to do just that! . . . The world of the Black Dagger Brotherhood continues to grow and become more layered, ramping up the tension, risk and passion. This is awesome stuff * Romantic Times *
Wickedly sexy -- Lisa Gardner
[A] mid night whirlwind of dangerous characters and mesmerizing erotic romance. The Black Dagger Brotherhood owns me now. Dark fantasy lovers, you just got served -- Lynn Viehl, USA Today bestselling author of Evermore



Book Information
ISBN 9780349409191
Author J. R. Ward
Format Paperback
Page Count 544
Imprint Piatkus Books
Publisher Little, Brown Book Group
Weight(grams) 420g
Dimensions(mm) 196mm * 128mm * 38mm