The kingdom of Eshen has just lost a terrible war to the brutal Ushaxi barbarians of the north. With their army broken, their fields turned to ash, and winter approaching, the Esheni king reluctantly makes a deal- in exchange for truce and aid, he offers up one of his children to be the Pack-King's bride.
All are surprised when he demands the crown prince's hand in marriage.
Isra is nothing if not loyal to his country, and despite his apprehension, he accepts his duty. But all is not as it seems, and while Isra settles into life under his new husband, he seeks the answers to many questions- why did the Pack-King choose him? Why did the Ushaxi attack Eshen in the first place? And why does his husband never stay the night with him?