"[An] extraordinary first fantasy novel focuses on two captivating characters . . . [A] highly original writer with her own unique voice." —Publishers Weekly, starred review

From an award-winning author, the first book in the spellbinding series, The Doctrine of Labyrinths

Welcome to Mélusine , a city as wondrous as it is corrupt. Within its walls lies a stronghold of power and magic, a shining setting for the brilliant Felix Harrowgate. A well-respected wizard and darling of the court, Felix harbors sordid secrets from his peers in the aristacy: a dark past in which a sadistic wizard enslaved him body and mind, even as he schooled Felix in how to walk among noblemen as if he were one of them. An abuser Felix believes himself free of, until a return to his former master's lair leads to his harrowing fall from grace.

Broken, lost, Felix finds an unlikely accomplice in Mildmay the Fox. Trained to be an assassin, surviving as a thief, Mildmay knows what it is to be hunted. When fate brings the weakened wizard and the wanted killer together, they escape Mélusine, traveling through strange lands where they encounter peculiar magic and powerful demons. A world where shocking secrets will be laid bare—dark truths that will bind them together forever.

"A lush novel, rife with decadent magic." —Jacqueline Carey, New York Times–bestselling author of the Kushiel's Legacy series

"A spellbinding, gut-wrenching, breathtaking quest that resonates with truth and heart." —Joan D. Vinge, Hugo and Locus award-winning author of The Snow Queen

"[Addison's] characters deserve a standing ovation." — Booklist, starred review

Originally published under the name Sarah Monette.