Book Description
If you want to be safe... mind your caste. In a kingdom where all is measured by birthright, moving up in society is almost impossible. Which is why young Rani Trader's merchant family sacrifices nearly everything to buy their daughter an apprenticeship in the Glasswrights' Guild - where honor and glory will be within her reach. But being in the wrong place at the wrong time places Rani in the middle of a terrible conspiracy that leaves the Royal Prince dead - and her guild torn asunder. Branded a traitor, she slinks through the city streets, changing her identity to avoid being caught. And as Rani rises from the city slums to the royal household, she uncovers an elusive brotherhood whose deadly venom reaches out to stain the heart of her guild, the heart of her family - and the heart of her king....


From the Author
Rani Trader's story grows out of my own love of fantasy fiction. Rani is descended from the heros and heroines I've met and admired in the novels of Anne Bishop, Katherine Kurtz, and Patricia McKillip. At the same time, Rani is a unique, high-spirited individual - a proud, strong young woman who takes charge of the often-mystifying world around her. I hope that you will come to enjoy Rani's company as much as I have and follow her on her adventures in and around Morenia!


About the Author
Mindy L. Klasky lives and works in Washington, DC. At her day job, she's a reference librarian for a large Washington law firm (a substantial improvement over her former life as a practicing attorney!) In her spare time, she swims, bakes, and quilts.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

A mere glasswrights' apprentice must uncover an elusive brotherhood whose deadly venom reaches out to stain the heart of her guild, the heart of her family-and the heart of her king....

"This first novel will absorb and intrigue you."-Nancy Kress

"Splendid...nicely done."-Dennis L. McKiernan

FROM THE CRITICS

Melinda Helfer - Romantic Times

Ms. Klasky creates remarkably shaded characters, especially the heroine, who through flawed choices, learns in the end she can only speak truth. The result is an absorbing reading indeed...look for this author to develop in fascinating ways.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

Dennis McKierman