This is a fantasy story that pulls you in from the beginning with a very unique magic system. The kingdom of Blunder is surrounded by mist ready to devour any who stray into the wood without their charm. Magic can only legally be used if one possesses a Providence card. The type of card determines the type of magic. But an infection persists and gives unlawful magic with terrible consequences. Any children who get infected are burned. Those who try to hide them are exiled to the wood with no charm. But, should one be able to collect all the cards and unify the deck, infection is cured and mist defeated. Elspeth has been infected and successfully hidden by her family. But even they don’t know the magic she possesses. She is recruited to help find the cards and unite the deck. However, she must deal with her developing feeling for the captain of the Destriers whose job is to find the infected and dispose of them, a kingdom who would willingly turn her in if they knew, palace intrigue, and the Nightmare. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is such a distinctive magic system and story with characters that I care about. It is a constant balance between treason and loyalty and love. There are daring adventures to get the cards. A man who is not what he seems who is enthralled with a woman who has secrets of her own. How will it all end up? Ready for book 2!