Book excerpt: Untested young rulers must cooperate to protect their world from the magical threat of the mysterious kingdom of Norsunder in this first entry in the Rise of the Alliance series Set in the Sartorias-deles universe and perfect for fans of court politics and high-caliber fantasy series writers like Robin Hobb and Naomi Novik Set in the beloved world of the Inda series, Sherwood Smith returns readers to the enthralling saga of Sartorias-deles, bringing together deadly high politics, engaging worldbuilding, and nuanced examinations of power, love, and betrayal. Long-dormant magical forces are moving once again in Sartorias-deles. Agents of Norsunder, a mysterious bastion of incredible dark power, have reappeared in the world, amassing resources and sowing instability. But with numerous nations led by young rulers brought too early to their thrones, the world is hardly ready to defend itself. These leaders soon realize that any significant victory against Norsunder will require an alliance between their nations. Yet good intentions may fracture in the face of personal grudges, secrets, and inexperience. As the Norsundrian attacks become bolder, the members of this tenuous alliance must find ways to trust one another and bind themselves together--lest they fail to defend against a host that has crushed entire worlds. "The leisurely pace, sprawling cast, and wide-ranging scope will delight existing fans and those seeking an immersive experience."—Publishers Weekly