The Black Circle

Vallinore is used to being sidelined. She's a scholar, a bird shapeshifter and, worst of all, a bastard daughter. She's certainly lonely... and she certainly dreams about getting her father's approval.

When a neighbouring power captures a peace delegation, Vallinore finally gets her chance: stepping into the role of ambassador and securing a vial of the world's strongest (and most dangerous) magic. Her quest tosses her into the heart of a city squeezed tight by ration lines and conscription into an army of magic wielders, all under the watchful eyes of Rideroc, a general with a reputation for being heartless... and her father's sworn enemy.

Desperate to snag a vial of magic, Vallinore lands in hot water when she's caught spying on Rideroc and his Black Circle, a cadre of elite warriors. With Vallinore's back pressed against the wall, Rideroc strikes a deal with her, promising a vial of Psicore for her father if she uses her scholarly abilities to free him from his bloodthirsty king. 

The Black Circle is an Adult Fantasy novel with a strong romantic subplot.

*Artwork by Lulybot