In this must-read prequel to Kendare Blake's New York Times bestselling Three Dark Crowns, the queens' origin story is revealed. It's a pre-crown lowdown of Fennbirn's ruling class.

Mirabella, Arsinoe, and Katharine weren't always scheming to murder each other. They weren't always surrounded by rival foster families, each swearing to have their best interests at heart. And they weren't always afraid of being unexpectedly attacked—by one of their own sisters, no less—in a way that could cost them their last breath.

They used to be together. Just three sisters. Alone in a glen.

This is the story of the three queens—after they were born, before they were separated, during the time when they all lived together, loved each other, and protected each other. Even as children, their personalities were starting to emerge—Mirabella was the responsible eldest; Arsinoe, the wild spitfire; and Katharine, the obedient youngest. It's also the story of the day they were torn apart, and the several years that follow.

From birth to eleven years old, this is a rare glimpse of the queens' lives...before they were at stake.

Don't miss any of the Three Dark Crowns books, including Five Dark Fates, the thrilling conclusion to the series!

Want to read more about Fennbirn's history? Check out The Oracle Queen, the tragic story of the legendary last Queen with the gift of sight!