Children of Ash

A cursed hero. A hidden warrior. A war built on lies.Axel Ashersson is the greatest hero in Åldran song. Born the only son of a Häxa-women blessed by the gods with magic-he is unmatched in strength and impervious to mortal injury. But the gods marked him at birth with a curse: if Axel ever gives his heart away, he will lose his gift, and Åldras will fall to the invading Sidan forces. Fortunately, only one woman has ever held any claim on his heart... and he knows she will never return the feeling.Petyr Mallorysson is one of Åldras's most feared soldiers-swift, silent, lethal. And also a woman. For eight brutal years she has kept her identity hidden from commanders, comrades, and kings alike. If anyone besides Axel discovers the truth, she risks losing the only family she has left... and the secrets she has buried deep enough to burn.When the High King orders Axel and Pet on a mission that could decide the fate of the realm, they must brave treacherous seas, face the mythical beasts guarding the path to the elusive Häxa, and evade Sidan hunters closing in from every side. But as the journey twists into prophecy, betrayal, and blood, Pet and Axel learn that the war they've fought their whole lives is built on foundations far more dangerous than enemies or monsters.And the truth-about magic, about loyalty, about each other-might shatter Åldras long before the Sidans ever can.