Ascendant Sun

In this "fast-paced and pleasing entry in the Saga of the Skolian Empire ," an advanced race enslaves the heir apparent to a rival kingdom ( Publishers Weekly ). Kelric, the long-lost son of the Imperial Skolian family, has finally escaped his gilded cage. Having lived at the mercy of a secret colony for nearly two decades, Kelric returns to the Skolian universe, injured and alone—only to discover the rest of his family is either dead or being held hostage. It leaves Kelric as the only heir to rule the empire, a secret he guards with his life. Knowing survival depends on blending in—as much as a bio-enhanced warrior can—he takes work on a merchant vessel. But when the ship is captured by the Aristos, a superior race intent on conquering his people, Kelric becomes a pleasure slave for a powerful queen among his enemies. He must find a way to escape and take his rightful throne before it is too late—for his own sake, the sake of those he loves, and the sake the empire he is destined to rule. . . . Praise for the Skolian Empire series "Asaro's Skolian saga is now nearly as long and in many ways as compelling as Dune, if not more so, featuring a multitude of stronger female characters." — Booklist/DESC "Asaro reveals fascinating new aspects of her talent with each new book, and readers can always expect something fresh, different, and absolutely wonderful." — Romantic Times "The ending of Ascendant Sun is dramatic and touching. Most readers, including myself, will be eager to know what happens next." — Fantasy Literature