Briar is a commander of the Shields, an elite group of palace guards tasked with protecting the Sun-King in an ancient castle built into a cliffside. When a group of brigands and treacherous magic-users infiltrates the stronghold, she is the only defender capable of stopping the siege. The plot centers on a single night of intense combat as Briar navigates secret tunnels and booby-trapped corridors. She must balance her physical disabilities and aging body against the ruthless efficiency of the invaders to secure the royal family.
Readers who enjoy gritty, action-heavy fantasy featuring older protagonists will find a realistic portrayal of martial combat and tactical defense. This book serves those interested in the Die Hard narrative structure applied to a medieval high-fantasy setting. The reader learns the technical demands of castle defense and gains a perspective on the mental toll of long-term military service. It provides a sharp look at how a specialist uses environmental advantages to overcome superior numbers.
- Published
- 2024
- Language
- EN
