In his Books from the Change, New York Times bestselling author S.M. Stirling presents ‘a devastated, mystical globe that will appeal to fans of traditional illusion aswell as post-apocalyptic SF.’* Continuing their pursuit that started in The Golden Princess, two future rulers of a global without technology risk their lives looking for a fabled edge. Reiko, Empress of Japan, provides allied herself with Princess Orlaith, heir towards the Large Kingdom of Montival, to get the Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, the Grass- about The Desert as well as the Knife Trimming Sword, a legendary treasure of a historical dynasty that confers valor and victory to its bearer. Orlaith understands all as well well the energy it signifies. Her very own inherited cutting tool, the Sword of the Lady, was both a burden and a danger to her father, Rudi Mackenzie, since it failed to conserve the ruler from being assassinated. However the fabled sword is situated deep using the Valley of Death, as well as the search will become definately not easy. And war is certainly building, in Montival and considerably beyond. As Orlaith and Reiko encounter danger and wonder, Orlaith’s mother, Queen Matildha, is convinced her daughter’s alliance and pursuit has endangered the entire realm. A couple of factions both within and without Montival whose loyalty died with the ruler, and whispers of treachery and battle grow ever louder. And the Malevolence that underlies the foe will bend all its pushes to ruin them. *Web publishers Weekly (starred review)