Lisa Sterling

Witterhold Academy hides dark secrets, and freshman Aria Veld is at the center of them. Instead of studying, she faces dangerous investigations, midnight pranks with friends, and Cain Morn—a brooding sixth-year squad overseer who seems to hate her at first sight. His anthracite magic terrifies her, and his coldness drives her mad. But when the Rector's trap begins to burn students' powers during the Tournament, Aria must uncover the truth. What strange power pulses in her core? And why is her ruthless overseer ready to commit high treason and burn the world to ashes just to protect her? With the rules shattered, there is only one path left—into the mysterious Blackwood. The war is just beginning.