The spring thaw has come . . .

And murder is in the air.

Connor doesn't even know he and Ivor are walking rage-murder time bombs, with implanted directives from the evil queen.

Good thing the only other thing they have to worry about is how to survive the looming war against the indestructible Queen Dreokt. Despite a winter of frantic research, development, and training, fueled by bucketloads of thinking food, they're no closer to figuring out a winning strategy.

Even if they can overcome the kill directive without all dying, they're out of time.

Skirmishes, battles, and unprecedented destruction sweep the continent as Connor and his team lead an international coalition against the queen, united against tyranny and bound by ties of food diplomacy.

But deeper truths lead to unexpected discoveries that shake the foundation of their understanding of magic and the final threshold.

Their greatest hope might prove their worst nightmare.