Empire of Exiles (Books of the Usurper, 1)

From a new star in epic fantasy comes an irresistibly compelling novel where an unlikely team must band together to unearth a conspiracy that might devastate their empire in this captivating blend of page-turning locked room mystery and lyrical fantasy that readers will find "ensnaring." (Cat Rambo).

"Detailed and mysterious, a place to explore and relish. Empire of Exiles is highly recommended!" - R.A. Salvatore

"In these pages, you are in the hands of a master." - Ed Greenwood

"Characters I love, plot twists that keep coming, and a unique and fascinating world!" - Melissa Caruso

"Beautifully wrought and equally ensnaring." - Cat Rambo

Twenty-three years ago, a Duke with a grudge led a ruthless coup against the empire of Semilla, killing thousands. He failed. The Duke was executed, a terrifyingly powerful sorcerer was imprisoned, and an unwilling princess disappeared.

The empire moved on.

Now, when Quill, an apprentice scribe, arrives in the capital city, he believes he's on a simple errand for another pompous noble: fetch ancient artifacts from the magical Imperial Archives. He's always found his apprenticeship to a lawman to be dull work. But these aren't just any artifacts -- these are the instruments of revolution, the banners under which the Duke lead his coup.

Just as the artifacts are unearthed, the city is shaken by a brutal murder that seems to have been caused by a weapon not seen since the days of rebellion. With Quill being the main witness to the murder, and no one in power believing his story, he must join the Archivists -- a young mage, a seasoned archivist, and a disillusioned detective -- to solve the truth of the attack. And what they uncover will be the key to saving the empire - or destroying it again.