What a unique and wonderful read! Pickett crafts an exceptional world and gives us a strong, but flawed, main character in Tarquin, head of the city of Arubio. After two years of civil war, Tarquin strives to rebuild his city and solidify his place as leader. He is shocked, however, when his interfering uncle sends him a faery prince for him to marry - Viridian, the heir to the throne of the fey nation of Fiddach. As the two get to know each other, it becomes clear that not all is well in the city of Arubio and forces are plotting against Tarquin. With well-developed and thought out characters, Pickett takes us on a wild - and sometimes painful - journey that you don't want to miss. This book does have a dark edge to it and deals with heavy themes, but this is an excellent read for any fantasy fan.