Queen's Griffon. Swords & Tiaras, #2

To save her kingdom, an exiled queen must locate five mysterious stones. Avera's been kidnapped by pirates, launching her quest to counter an evil entity in peril. If only Captain Griffin would listen. However, he refuses to help and instead brings her to Saarpira, the isle of pirates, while he waits to see who will pay the biggest ransom. Avera does everything in her power to escape, only to find herself a prisoner of someone even worse.
The only bright spot is her new captor wants her to complete her dangerous mission which entails visiting the dead continent of Verlora. The country, known for its science and innovation, suffered a catastrophe decades ago and remains perilous to­­­ those who dare brave its shores. However, Avera has no choice. She must navigate the danger and find the stolen stones that act as seals to keep the powerful Zhos trapped.
One by one, her captors fall as they weave their way through the destroyed city of Sitnalta. But surviving that journey is only the beginning of her troubles. Unexpected revelations have her questioning everything she's been told-and what she must do. As Avera untangles the mysterious threads of the past, she must make a choice, one that might have dire consequences for the future. It will take all her wits to survive because she doubts the charming-and insufferable-pirate captain will find her in time.