Book excerpt: A corrupt kingdom. A rising darkness. Can a broken warrior save a world? Mithranar is a country divided by ignorance and magic. Oppressed by their winged folk rulers, humans struggle to eke out an existence. Their only help comes from the mysterious Shadowhawk, a criminal who has evaded all attempts at capture. Meanwhile, something else … something violent … stalks the streets, and it has ambitions that could bring Mithranar to its knees. The arrival of a foreign warrior will change everything. Descended from the ruling house of the kingdom of the Twin Thrones, Talyn Dynan is a born warrior. But after a combat mission goes tragically wrong, she is left broken and wracked with guilt, her confidence in tatters. A dangerous mission to the allied country of Mithranar is her final chance to prove she can still be an elite warrior. And it could change the world. Or end in her death. A Tale of Stars and Shadow is the first book in an adult epic fantasy series for readers who love: political intrigue, found family, a hint of magic, and a strong female lead. Perfect for those who love DK Holmberg, Philip C Quaintrell, and Christopher Mitchell.