The special first edition hardcover will include a gorgeous shimmering jacket with effects brilliantly illustrated four-color endpapers striking and detailed-stained edges and a beautiful foil-stamped case. Infused with magic and romance this sweeping fantasy adventure inspired by the legend of Mulan follows a young woman determined to choose her own destiny--even if that means going against everyone she loves. The Three Kingdoms are at war but Meilin s father refuses to answer the imperial draft. Trapped by his opium addiction he plans to sell Meilin for her dowry. But when Meilin discovers her husband-to-be is another violent ill-tempered man she realizes that nothing will change for her unless she takes matters into her own hands. The very next day she disguises herself as a boy and enlists in her father s place. In the army Meilin s relentless hard work brings her recognition friendship--and a growing closeness with Sky a prince turned training partner. But has she simply exchanged one prison for another? As her kingdom barrels toward destruction Meilin begins to have visions of a sea dragon spirit that offers her true power and freedom but with a deadly price. With the future of the Three Kingdoms hanging in the balance Meilin will need to decide whom to trust--Sky who inspires her loyalty and love; the sea dragon spirit who has his own murky agenda; or an infuriating enemy prince who makes her question everything she once knew--about her kingdom and about her own heart.