Julia Underwood

In 2073, the world fractured into isolated enclaves after the collapse of centralized governments. When Makayla Odin returns from grueling years of captivity in the southern battlegrounds disguised as a male to survive, she's matured and ready to reclaim her position as leader of the Aurora enclave. But unexpected complications arise when she must share her bedroll with the injured Talon de LaTerre, Raptare's commander, whose brutal devotion to her people is matched by her fierce beauty.
Months later, Talon arrives in Aurora to negotiate a defense alliance. Instead, she discovers that the "fledgling" who caught her attention is Aurora's new co-commander. Talon doesn't do relationships but can't shake her memories of the woman she knew as Mak. Especially when both consulting councils insist Makayla remain at Raptare to conduct extended negotiations with Talon. In a world where survival depends on strategic alliances, Makayla and Talon must navigate not only complex politics but also the dangerous territory of their hearts.