Short Synopsis
Continuing the adventure that began in Flesh and Fire, this is the second novel in Laura Anne Gilman's acclaimed fantasy series about a world in which magic derives from the process of wine-making.

Full Synopsis
Vineart student Jerzy and his new companions Ao and Mahault take to the sea, to gain time in which to figure out what to do after the disastrous events they left behind in the city-state of Aleppan. While at sea a magic-laced storm drives their ship to falter—only to be rescued by a surprising, ghost-driven ally. Called home and under close watch by the sternly pious Washers, Jerzy tries to let go of what he has learned and return to his formerly satisfying life as an apprentice at the House of Malech. But the shadows on the Lands Vin continue to darken, and neither he nor Vineart Malech can ignore them for long. Soon enough, Jerzy and his companions are reunited and given a task: find the source of the magic taint plaguing the Lands Vin so that the name of the House of Malech can be cleared of all wrongdoing. But when tragedy strikes, a simple, impossible mission becomes a voyage of vengeance.

"Gilman's intriguing and innovative system of magic based on the art of winemaking is deepened and clarified, which will delight fans of the first book, and plenty of action sequences keep things moving." ---Publishers Weekly