Viola Sinclair has hidden the shadow magic in her blood for seventeen years, trying to blend in as a student at the prestigious Vandenberghe Academy. When her secret is discovered, the queen gives her assassin, the Huntsman, a new assignment and a new cursed tattoo: the seven thorns on his arm mean he has seven days to hunt Viola down and kill her. If he doesn't, he will be the one to die.

It turns out the Huntsman isn't just an assassin. He's Roze Roquelart—entitled prince, arrogant fellow student, and the one person Viola hates more than anyone. He should revel in the chance to strike Viola down. But the Hunstman needs something from Viola and her magic. And he's willing to spare her life to get it.

Viola and Roze have seven days to save their lives. Forced to work together, they'll discover terrible secrets, sinister threats…and an irresistible attraction. But is the prince telling the full truth? Is anyone?