Lord Ingry kin Wolfcliff is commanded to deliver Lady Ijada (accused of killing a prince who planned to rape and sacrifice her) to the royal court, there to be tried and executed.  Magic is everywhere in this land of the Five Gods.  Ingry and Lady Ijada's mutual attraction grows, while both are also undergoing strange sensations because they have been invaded by dangerous animal spirits.  Publisher's Weekly gave it a starred review and called this third installment in the Chalion series "absorbing" and "brilliant".

"Bujold's reworking of a classic romantic situation is distinguished by its setting in a well-crafted world and masterly creation of characters whose fates will keep readers turning the pages." 

- Booklist

"Bujold continues to prove what marvels genius can create out of basic space operatics.” 

- Library Journal

“Bujold is not just a master of plot, she is a master of emotion.” 

- SF Site 

“Bujold is one of the best writers of SF adventure to come along in years.” 

- Locus Magazine

“A superb craftsman and stylist, Ms. Bujold is well on her way to becoming one of the great voices of speculative fiction.”  

- Rave Reviews

“Bujold has a gift, nearly unique in science fiction, for the comedy of manners.”  

- Chicago Sun Times