In the year following the rescue of her brother, Branna tries without much success to adapt to her new life in Coldwood. But when the war spills onto her doorstep, she is forced to flee the battle-ravaged land with her husband and overbearing brother-in-law. Dodging enemy soldiers isn't the only obstacle Branna has to contend with. Enemies both near and far threaten her plans to reunite with her brother Oren and friend Sahil to seek safety beyond the borders of Lothia.