The Queen's Assassin
Naida is living a lie.
A peerless battlefield surgeon. A talisman for the army. A symbol of hope in an impossible, grinding war.
A fraud.
Society, led by the queen, has long held that the Esselrode people and their abilities are inherently, irredeemably evil, a truth which Naida has been brought up to believe. But as one of them, feeling compelled to use her powers again and again to heal those on the brink of death, it's hard to accept. It's even harder to live a lie, conflicted about her hidden identity, when the truth could save lives.
Taken from the battlefield where she thrives to a court where her life hangs ever more precariously in the balance, Naida is about to learn that there are even greater secrets, and conspiracies, afoot... and that her dangerous truth could change the course of a nation...
James Barclay is back with a brand-new standalone adventure which will tug on your heartstrings and keep you glued to your seat. James is truly a fantasy great, and this new novel will satisfy all fans of the genre.
James Barclay
James Barclay is a name that resonates with fans of epic fantasy, known for his bold, character-driven narratives and intricate world-building. With a knack for blending the gritty realities of battle with deeply personal emotional arcs, Barclay has captivated readers around the world, carving out a unique niche in the fantasy genre.
Born and raised in the United Kingdom, Barclay's early life was steeped in a love for storytelling, though his journey into writing was anything but conventional. He initially worked in the field of insurance, but his passion for fantasy literature was never far from his mind. His first breakthrough came with the publication of The Raven's Shadow series, which introduced readers to the extraordinary group of mercenaries known as the Raven. The series is widely praised for its realism in depicting the brutality of war, as well as its complex, flawed characters who must navigate a world that often seems stacked against them.
Blood and Fire
Blood and Fire consists of two books — considered a complete series. The current recommended reading order for the series is provided below.