From the Gemmell Award-shortlisted author of The Tethered Mage, The Obsidian Tower begins a bold new epic fantasy trilogy in which one woman's powers and choices may save - or destroy - a continent.

As the granddaughter of a Witch Lord of Vaskandar, Ryx was destined for power and prestige. But a childhood illness left her with broken magic that drains the life from anything she touches, and Vaskandar has no place for a mage with unusable powers. So, Ryx has resigned herself to an isolated life as the warden of her grandmother's castle.

At the castle's heart lies a black tower. Sealed by magic, it guards a dangerous secret that has been contained for thousands of years. But when Ryx discovers a visiting envoy attempting to break into the tower, a magical accident leaves her with blood on her hands.

Unwittingly, Ryx has unleashed a threat that could engulf the whole continent. She and unlikely collection of newfound allies must contain it, and the political conflicts that follow, or else everything she loves will fall to darkness.

Praise for Melissa Caruso:

'I think [Caruso] is sublimely talented . . . A phenomenally well-written, engrossing political fantasy series' Fantasy Book Review

'Caruso's worldbuilding is brilliant and complex' Library Journal

'A dashing, compelling and exciting story, blending magic, assassination, conspiracy and diplomacy . . . I'll make no bones about it, I loved this book' Blue Book Balloon on The Defiant Heir