The Tainted Cup (Ana and Din Mysteries Book 1)

In Daretana's greatest mansion, a high imperial officer is found dead—apparently killed when a tree erupted from his body. Even at the Empire's borders, where contagions and leviathan blood produce strange magical effects, this death is both terrifying and impossible. Assigned to investigate is Ana Dolabra, a detective known for brilliance and eccentricity. She wears a blindfold at all times and has a reputation for solving impossible cases without leaving her home. Her new assistant, Dinios Kol, is magically altered to complement her abilities. Din finds Ana both infuriating and remarkable as he watches her make startling deductions. As the two pursue a mastermind and uncover a scheme threatening the Empire itself, Din begins to realize how little he understands about Ana Dolabra—and worries about keeping his own secrets from her piercing intellect. The Tainted Cup combines detective fiction with world-building to deliver a mystery that blends familiar elements with new invention.