Brimstone

Saeris Fane has just been crowned queen of the Blood Court, and she does not want the position. Her name is now whispered across the whole court, and the weight of ruling leaves her little that is her own. Her ward and her brother need her in her homeland, but the changes that made her stronger have also left her unable to survive the trip.

Born under blazing suns, Saeris would die crossing the Quicksilver, so she has to send someone in her place. The choice falls to Kingfisher of the Ajun Gate, a warrior who has beaten armies and lived through all manner of horrors. His companion is the smuggler Carrion Swift, who talks constantly, and Fisher privately suspects the pairing may kill him faster than any enemy.

Their destination is Zilvaren and the narrow alleyways of the Silver City. Hidden dangers wait there, and secrets coming to light pose threats neither man can easily answer. Fisher has to keep the smuggler in line and finish his task fast if he wants to return to his mate.

This is a fantasy continuing the story begun in Quicksilver, so it is best read after that book. The tone mixes banter with real menace. As darkness spreads across Yvelia and their friends fall into danger, Saeris and Fisher are drawn toward fire and brimstone.