Modesitt returns to the world of his bestseller The Magic of Recluce with a new magical fantasy adventure prequel. Set centuries earlier, this new work tells the story of the founding of the magical society on the island of Recluce.

Alastar has settled into his role as the Maitre of the Collegium. Now married and a father, he would like to focus his efforts on improving Imagisle and making it more self-sufficient. However, a crisis is brewing in Solidar, causing the High Holders to call for repeals on the Codex Legis. Once again, Alastar must maintain a careful balance, but he can't avoid the involvement of the Collegium when someone begins killing students. Trying to protect...