Lucien returns to Velaris after the war with Hybern, full of anxiety about being so near to Elain. He tries to find a place among Rhysand's Inner Circle and find the balance between getting to know his mate without being overbearing. For months, Elain has been having a recurring dream of autumn forests. When Lucien returns to Velaris, not only does the dream's frequency intensify, but she finds herself waking up in Lucien's room every morning before dawn. Despite Nesta's looming presence and Lucien's lingering guilt over Jesminda, the two grow closer and Elain allows herself to truly imagine what being Lucien's mate could be like. Lucien begins to wonder if the Night Court could be the home he's spent so long searching for. But their fragile, new bond will be tested when Lucien is called away, back to the continent and its cursed queen. Set after ACOWAR but ignores the events from ACOFAS. Elucien all the way. Sorry Elriel shippers.

After they return from Adriata, Feyre works through what happened with Tamlin, whats happening with the War with Hybern, and struggles through her guilt, shame, and grief as she falls deeper in love with Rhysand. She wants Rhys, she wants him in every way. But if she gives into whatever exists between them, will she just be proving Aramantha right? That she really is a traitor with an inconsistent human heart... Feyre forges new friendships within the Inner Circle, spends girl time with Morrigan, trains to master her new powers, heals from the horrors of UTM/Tamlin, and becomes more open with Rhysand about her feelings and desires as she works to nullify the Cauldron and defeat Hybern.