In the aftermath of the troubles from the previous book, The Queen's Weapons, three young women must make decisions which will affect not only themselves, but those around them, as Witch provides them with guidance. Queen-in-training Zoey may now be safe within the walls of SaDiablo Hall, but she is still vulnerable to those with sharp tongues and dark thoughts. When a stranger arrives at the hall looking for sanctuary, Zoey's attempts at friendship could put everyone around her in danger. Meanwhile, Jillian is preparing for her rite of passage that ensures she'll keep her witch power and the jewels she wears, but a heart secret means facing her powerful family members and their lethally protective natures. Then there's Saetien, who travels away to discover information, which may finally let her face her own truths as daughter of the High Lord of Hell. VERDICT A fine continuation of the "Black Jewels" series, keeping the legacy alive with its tangled web of family and power. Bishop's devoted fans will devour this, while readers of Nalini Singh and Ilona Andrews who enjoy high fantasy may want to start this series from the beginning.—Kristi Chadwick