In Riaznin, it's considered an honor for Auraseers like Sonya--girls with a rare form of synesthesia--to serve as the emperor's personal protector, constantly scanning for feelings of malice and bloodlust in the court. But Sonya would rather be free. After the queen's murder and a tragic accident, Sonya is hauled off to the palace to guard a charming yet volatile new ruler. But Sonya's power is reckless and hard to control. She's often carried away by the intense passion of others. And when a growing rebellion forces Sonya to side with either the emperor who trusts her or his mysterious brother, the crown prince, Sonya realizes she may be the key to saving the empire--or its greatest threat."--