Publisher's Synopsis
Sword, axe, and flame sweep the west. They threaten to drag much of the world into the maelstrom. Irina Ivanovna, Great Mother of Periaslavl, knows war would destroy much of her land. Even though magic has kept her body young, she is too tired to lead her people through the upcoming storm so she steps down in favor of her heir, as tradition dictates. She heads toward the fray and discovers an ancient foe orchestrates the storm. Now, he stalks her, knowing her magic is the key. She must elude his hunters so she can discover what is truly threatening not just Periaslavl, but all of Shijuren. And she must do so before the lightning strikes.
