Being the first is the last thing they expect of you.

Keladry of Mindelan dreams of becoming squire to the legendary female knight Alanna the Lioness, a hero straight out of story. But Kel is chosen instead by Lord Raoul, a leader of men and a strategist – an unexpected honour that shocks her enemies.

Kel must hone her skills and discover what it takes to be part of the royal guard. Part of a team.

With this change comes another: a new romance, bringing with it the rush of first love and the unexpected challenges of balancing duty and love.

All the while, Kel prepares for her biggest challenge: the infamous and terrifying Ordeal – the last challenge standing between her and knighthood.