Onyx & Ivory, by Mindee Arnett

They call her Traitor Kate. It’s a title Kate Brighton inherited from her father after he tried to assassinate the high king of Rime.

Cast out of the nobility, Kate now works for the royal courier service. Only the most skilled ride for the Relay and only the fastest survive, for when night falls, the drakes—deadly flightless dragons—come out to hunt. Fortunately, Kate has a secret edge: She is a wilder, born with forbidden magic that allows her to influence the minds of animals.

And it’s this magic that leads her to a caravan massacred by drakes in broad daylight—the only survivor Corwin Tormaine, the son of the king. Her first love, the boy she swore to forget after he condemned her father to death.

With their paths once more entangled, Kate and Corwin must put the past behind them to face this new threat and an even darker menace stirring in the kingdom.

“Arnett offers a gripping story of two people’s search for courage and answers in a chaotic world. Arnett builds a rich world of magic and intrigue, enhanced by side characters of substance that create momentum for subsequent books.” (Publishers Weekly)

“The author has a knack for writing for young adults and molding real-life situations into this engaging story of magic and young love. Recommended for young fans of Game of Thrones and those who enjoy fast-paced and exciting fantasy.” (School Library Journal)

“Part political thriller, part fantasy epic, this is a high-octane adventure that untangles issues of choice, bias, and injustice. This series starter will suit any high-fantasy fan.” (ALA Booklist)