Empire of Shadows

Cast out by her Tiger Clan, Mara must regain her lost honor by pledging herself to someone she will protect until the day either she or her charge dies. In her search for her charge, she meets the beautiful Revathi, who is a relative of the emperor. Mara goes into service as Revathi’s guard. She also meets the gregarious Emil. As Mara is drawn into the intrigues of the court, she must discover who is plotting against her mistress. Emil journeys to the capital to find and protect his brother. When Mara and Emil’s paths cross again, they must help each other to prevent a coup.

This is actually a prequel to City of A Thousand Dolls, following the parents of that book’s main characters. I enjoyed the setting, characters, and intrigue that surrounded everything. I liked Mara and could empathize with her. I loved Mara’s power to change into an animal and how she struggled for humanity. I liked the solution; I felt it was very satisfying. I hope there are more coming in the series.