Princess Valeria Octavian has spent her life as a weapon in her father’s political arsenal. Trained to fight, command and never reveal weakness, she expects to be delivered into a royal marriage.

Instead, her own guards turn against her.

When the royal vessel is attacked, Valeria discovers the truth: the assault is no rescue attempt, and the Empire does not intend for her to survive.

Pirate captain Ronan Ironhart boards the dying ship with plans of his own. Taking an Octavian princess could give him the leverage he needs against the regime that destroyed his family. But Valeria is no helpless captive. She is lethal, calculating and far more dangerous than the prize he expected.

Trapped aboard the damaged Black Cat, hunted by an Imperial commander who knows Valeria’s every weakness, they have no choice but to work together.

Every battle deepens their trust.

Every secret gives the other power.

And every moment of unwanted desire threatens the control they both depend on.

Because the Empire wants Valeria dead.

Pirate law may demand Ronan surrender her.

And choosing each other could ignite a war neither of them can escape.