A thousand years into the future, a Black elite class reigns while the underclass toils at their feet. With her society's future hanging in the balance, young Avi Jore enters into an arranged marriage. But the ceremony turns violent when the servants rebel and kill Avi's father.

In the aftermath of General Jore's death, Avi and her sister Jade vie for power in a vicious contest. As the rightful heir, Avi has no choice but to defend what's hers--at any cost. With her loyalties tested and her enemies closing in, Avi must rely on her sister Saige, who searches for allies outside the Union's walls.

As Avi and Saige navigate threats and betrayals in the wake of worsening unrest, they forge a path forward that could forever change their turbulent world.