Dive into the history of Maxim Maresh, the stern king and adoptive father of Kell from the Shades of Magic trilogy, from the pen of New York Times #1 bestselling author V. E. Schwab herself!

Two hundred years have passed since the Worlds were magically sealed off from one another.

Red London, the capital of Arnes, thrives under the rule of the Maresh Empire. But when King Nokil Maresh learns that his son, Prince Maxim, is fixated on other Londons instead of his own, he sends him on a dangerous military excursion in the hope of focusing the Princes attention.

Maxims destination? Verose - better know as the Blood Coast - a dangerous port city with a reputation for trouble.