She wasn’t born with the right kind of magic. But the kind she does have could get her killed. Alanea “Neya” Everille has spent her life hiding a dangerous secret—she’s a synesthete, someone who can physically see magic. In a kingdom where such gifts are considered a threat to the Crown, hiding her power means execution. To her high-society family of famous jewelry enchanters, Neya is a disappointment. Ungifted. Unwanted. So when she’s finally allowed to attend university and study her true passion — botany — it feels like a fresh start. Until Zander Leverne finds out what she is. Arrogant, sharp-eyed, and infuriatingly handsome, Zander blackmails Neya into helping him with his own dangerous mission—one that takes them far beyond campus walls and everything she knew. As rumors of war spread and the Usurper’s forces grow bolder, Neya is forced to choose between playing it safe with Ian, the golden boy of the Chancellor’s court… or risking everything to find the roots of magic itself. In a world where spells are worn like jewels and secrets are more lethal than curses, Neya must decide who she is — and who she’s willing to betray. Perfect for fans of slow-burn fantasy, morally gray love interests, secret powers, and rich magical academia.