The first book in a new space opera trilogy by the acclaimed author of the Machineries of Empire!

Trust the Empress. Move at her will. Act as her hands.

Hwa Young was just ten years old when imperial forces destroyed her home, among the rebel clans of the Moonstorm. Now, years later, she is a citizen of the very empire that orphaned her, dreaming of getting back out among the stars and piloting a lancer—the fleet’s deadliest, most advanced fighting craft.

When a rebel attack leaves Hwa Young stranded on an imperial starship, her dreams become a reality. A military ship has no space for civilians, and the fleet badly needs lancer pilots—and Hwa Young and her friends are quick to volunteer for the demanding programme.

But training is nothing like what they expected, and secrets—like the fate of the fleet’s previous lancer squad, and deeper truths about the rebellion itself—are mounting up. When Hwa Young uncovers a conspiracy that puts their entire world at risk, she’s forced to choose between a past she’s put behind her and an empire she no longer trusts.