New York Times Bestseller - A passionate forbidden love threatens to tear apart the Black Dagger Brotherhood in J.R. Ward's latest novel from the number one New York Times bestselling series. Xcor, leader of the Band of Bastards, condemned for treason against the Blind King, faces brutal interrogation and a painful death at the hands of the Black Dagger Brotherhood. However, after a life marked by cruelty and wicked deeds, he accepts his fate as a soldier, his only regret being the loss of a sacred woman who was never his: the Chosen Layla. Only Layla knows the truth that will save Xcor's life. But the revelation of his sacrifice and his hidden legacy will expose them both and destroy everything Layla holds dear – even her role as a mother to her precious child. Torn between love and loyalty, she must find the courage to stand up against the only family she has for the only man she will ever love.