The Phoenix Effect Part 2

Book excerpt: Rise Up From the Ashes Lia is no longer the frail mortal she once was. Her newfound strength, however, came at a devastating price—Arin’s life... or so she believes. Still grappling with Roland's treachery, Lia discovers she is pregnant, destined to bear the first of a new generation endowed with superhuman healing abilities. Meanwhile, Roland leads his armies on a relentless campaign across the Borderlands, defeating all before him and igniting fears within the Unity of a rising Resistance. Returning after months on the march to the blessing of Lia’s pregnancy, he attempts to make peace with his wife, spurring a tentative reconciliation between them. Hidden in the shadows, though, a mysterious prisoner grows stronger. Arin’s miraculous survival from a gunshot to the brain is a riddle only Harris can unravel, as the rest of the world believes Arin to be dead. Harris attempts to manipulate his hostage by revealing Lia’s supposed loyalty to Roland. Bereft of hope for the woman he loves, Arin’s only answer is a daring escape into the wilderness of the Unclaimed Territories. When an enemy from Roland’s past strikes at the very heart of Cambria, the world teeters on the brink of war. Caught in this storm of conflict, Lia and Arin’s paths are destined to cross again. Will they meet as allies or enemies?