The Empire's Edge — Claire O'Dell

The Mage and Empire fantasy series continues with a novel of magic, intrigue, ambition, and betrayal from the author of A Jewel Bright Sea.
 
Anna Zhdanov left Duenne as a bonded servant. Six months later she has returned with wealth and freedom -- her reward for retrieving the Emperor's jewel. But when one's fate rests with a fickle ruler, nothing is certain. For her own safety, Anna is compelled to undertake another mission: helping to colonize newly discovered islands to the east. Her journey will also force her to confront her conflicted feelings for the nobleman and pirate, Andreas Koszenmarc.
 
Their arrival in distant Morennioù is greeted with concern by Gaude, queen of the islands. Devoted to her people, Gaude hopes to drive the settlers away -- peacefully, if possible. They have resisted takeover before. But this time, Anna must contend with the powerful, intriguing Commander Maszny. He should be her enemy, but the line between foe and ally can shift, as Anna well knows. And at some point, each woman must discern where duty ends, and destiny begins . . .
 
Praise for A Jewel Bright Sea
“This is a fast-paced sword and sorcery pirate adventure filled with magic, double-dealing and high stakes for the characters, and I enjoyed it a lot.” -- Martha Wells, New York Times�"bestselling author
 
“If you want rousing adventure with capable heroines and mysterious heroes, along with magic, swashbuckling, romance, and pirates, Claire O'Dell delivers the goods.” -- Darlene Marshall, Author of Castaway Dreams