The Cardinal War (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780228862048)

With no known heir to the Empire, four conflicting noble families will use whatever means necessary to claim power for themselves, but only one can become the next ruler. While the nobles fight amongst themselves, some people of the Empire struggle to survive.

Growing up on the streets of Mordale, Eileen has never known her family, or much else beyond the best place to steal a meal. This all changes after one stormy night of loss, fear, and escape. Eileen is suddenly plunged into Mordale's political turmoil, and her fate is intertwined with a warm-hearted but strict-to-his-duty messenger of the Empire, Daithi.

Although raised in the political world, Daithi's loyalties are challenged as he must decide between his duties as a messenger and a hidden truth that could change the course of not only his life, but that of every citizen in Mordale, as the imminent civil war has taken in more than just the noble families. He must stay unbiased while making decisions best for the Empire while helping those he cares about make the best decisions for themselves.

In the end, Eileen must determine who she is and who she will become as the struggle to rule consumes Mordale, while Daithi must choose between duty and his heart before too much is lost.