Thrilling, powerful, and intricately written, New York Times bestselling author Kristine Kathryn Rusch's The Rival furthers the pulse-pounding saga of the quest for power fought over generations. Twenty years after they first tried to conquer Blue Isle, the Fey return to seize the strategic island, led now by the all-powerful Black King Rugad. But the epic battle between patriarchs over control of their joint heir threatens to annihilate both bloodlines. In a thrilling battle for the rule of two nations, Kristine Kathryn Rusch's brilliant storytelling pits family against family in a gripping saga borne of love and power. From its sweeping opening to a shocking attack, this no-holds-barred saga furthers Rusch's mastery as the greatest storyteller of our time.