Ascendant Sun

In this "fast-paced and pleasing entry in the Saga of the Skolian Empire," an advanced race enslaves the heir apparent to a rival kingdom (Publishers Weekly). Kelric, the long-lost son of the Imperial Skolian family, has finally escaped his gilded cage. Having lived at the mercy of a secret colony for nearly two decades, Kelric returns to the Skolian universe, injured and alone--only to discover the rest of his family is either dead or being held hostage. It leaves Kelric as the only heir to rule the empire, a secret he guards with his life. Knowing survival depends on blending in--as much as a bio-enhanced warrior can--he takes work on a merchant vessel. But when the ship is captured by the Aristos, a superior race intent on conquering his people, Kelric becomes a pleasure slave for a powerful queen among his enemies. He must find a way to escape and take his rightful throne before it is too late--for his own sake, the sake of those he loves, and the sake the empire he is destined to rule. . . . Praise for the Skolian Empire series "Asaro's Skolian saga is now nearly as long and in many ways as compelling as Dune, if not more so, featuring a multitude of stronger female characters." --Booklist "Asaro reveals fascinating new aspects of her talent with each new book, and readers can always expect something fresh, different, and absolutely wonderful." --Romantic Times "The ending of Ascendant Sun is dramatic and touching. Most readers, including myself, will be eager to know what happens next." --Fantasy Literature