She came to the White City to save her family. Instead, she finds herself drowning in a darkness she must defeat. “I used to think love was a game played in a Palace” ___________________ In a forgotten world where old elemental magic is closed in stones and gems, Ten Families rule the Dominium . Nerissa Veymaris is no gentle Lady. She is an islander, raised among storms and sailors. But when her Family’s trade begins to sink and her brother falls mysteriously ill, Nerissa sails for the White City to attend the Gathering of the Families, seeking alliances that could save them both. The White City Palace is a web of whispers, rumors and lies. Nerissa must learn how to survive and fight for her own. There she meets Dricus Cineris, the mysterious Lord of the Desert with a painful past, and Aidenar Cavareth, a bold and reckless contender for the throne. As the Gathering begins, where powerful Families will select a new Regent, something far darker stirs beyond the palace walls. A strange Plague spreads across the land, rotting crops, poisoning water and turning animals into deadly beasts. Elemental magic may be the only force capable of stopping the darkness from devouring the world, if it doesn’t destroy Nerissa first. Diamonds command the Wind. Sapphires guide the Water. Emeralds bind the Earth. Rubies awaken Fire. But there was a fifth… ___________________ Perfect for fans of: enemies to lovers - morally grey love interests - elemental magic - court intrigue & power games - slow burn romance - strong female leads Tides of Shadows is an emotionally-charged, character-driven and slow-burn romantasy that will appeal to readers who loved Air Awakens by Elise Kova, The Bridge Kingdom by Danielle L. Jensen and Quicksilver by Callie Hart.