Dead of Knight — Nicole J. Persun

Book One in the Joined Trilogy

After a night of turbulent starfall--a grievous omen--six individuals begin an intersecting journey that even the gods could not have predicted. 

The Rebel and the Countryman--

Growing up in the city of Eresther, Elise learned the importance of pride, confidence, and freedom. When King Orson del Yelhart plots to siege Eresther and the other Free Territories, Elise orchestrates a covert rebellion to stop him. 

Ryan left his simple home in the farmlands of the Free Territories to become a virtuous and honorable soldier. But an unexpected encounter with Elise des Eresther compels him toward a much more dangerous adventure. 

The Mystic and the Captain--

Due to their demonic reputation, women with magical abilities are hunted and executed. After being forced into hiding, Gwen starts her life anew by cross-dressing as a male sailor. Just when her life feels like it's under control, she meets a ship captain who sways her toward an entirely different course. 

Captain Adrian catches a glimpse of Gwen's true nature on the streets of Amaray and yields to his curiosity when he approaches her with a sailing contract aboard his ship. He quickly discovers that he is in over his head--yet Adrian has a secret of his own to conceal. 

The Madmen--

King Orson and King Odell--both former knights undeserving of their thrones--are power-stricken, grieving, and mad. As they wage war over the bounty of the free territories, it appears as though they're merely in it for the glory. But their struggles are deeper and darker. As battles are fought, their true crusade is exposed: to mend that which neither of them can repair--their minds. 

Recommended for fans of Guy Gavriel Kay, Terry Brooks, Sharon Shinn, Robert Jordan, and Patrick Rothfuss.