The Masked Empire — Patrick Weekes

Empress Celene of Orlais rose to the throne of the most powerful nation in Thedas through wisdom, wit, and ruthless manipulation.

Now the empire she has guided into an age of enlightenment is threatened from within by imminent war between the templars and the mages, even as rebellion stirs among the downtrodden elves. To save Orlais, Celene must keep her hold on the throne by any means necessary. At her heels are Grand Duke Gaspard, an Orlesian chevalier who believes the kingdom deserves a new, stronger leader; and Briala, Celene's handmaid, spymaster, and lover, who wants nothing more than to fight for her people--the elves. Alliances are forged and promises broken as Celene and Gaspard battle for the throne. In the end, however, the elves, hidden and starving, may decide the fate of the masked empire themselves.

This deluxe edition features twenty-four brand new illustrations by Stefano Martino, Álvaro Sarraseca, Andres Ponce, and German Ponce in an intricately designed, foil stamped hardcover!