Shards of Hope

Complex psychological changes are balanced by deep love in the outstanding 15th Psy-Changeling paranormal romance (after Shield of Winter), set at the end of the 21st century. This episode focuses on the Arrows, an organization of assassins with psychic abilities. The Arrows have been shaken by the recent fall of the Silence Protocol, which mandated training Psy children to be emotionless to help them control their powers; it worked, but also created sociopaths. Aden Kai, thought to be one of the weaker Arrows, has taken command and sworn to protect his Arrows and help them recover. Needing support, he reaches out to one of his commanders, Zaira Neve, arguably the Arrow who needs the discipline of Silence the most. Together, Aden and Zaira have to overcome assassination attempts and the growing pains of change—even as they confront a threat greater than their pasts and start to realize the romantic possibilities of their longtime friendship. The plot advances the overarching story while still maintaining a strong sense of intimacy and connection with the characters. The tension of an epic psychological thriller provides the framework for an unparalleled romantic adventure. Agent: Nephele Tempest, Knight Agency. (June)