Reign Of Shadows: Deborah Chester

Book I of The Ruby Throne. Caelon E'Non, son of the land's most powerful healer is naturally expected to follow in his father's footsteps. But he has no interest in healing; he burns to do something more glorious - and he possesses a magic he doesn't understand...Elandra Albain has been raised as a servant in her father's house.Her sister, Lady Bixia, has been pampered and spoilt and is thought to be destined for greatness. But Elandra has a destiny all her own...For as long as Caelon and Elandra can recall, Emperor Kostimon has ruled the land - for nine centuries. But this wondrous immortality stems from a bargain with the very source of evil - the dark lord Beloth. And as Kostimon's tenth and last lifetime begins, the shadow god is getting restless... Cover art by Mary Jo Phallen.