Embattlement

the long version

"Against all odds, Derry and a handful of survivors have escaped the malevolent Doctor Lyong's clutches, but the victory is bittersweet. No one knows if Owen is dead or alive. The shaky plan to rescue him falls apart when the Council splits over rumors of Owen's ties to the Caniopolis. Forced to find new recruits, Derry makes the treacherous journey to Shoshane City, home of the mysterious riders. Behind the imposing barricade, the city's leader, Jerome, is hiding secrets. Mutiny and sabotage are afoot, and Derry finds herself caught up in a desperate struggle to save the city from being destroyed by The Ghost, a man who swears allegiance to no one. Time is running out to save Owen, and tensions are rising between Jakob and Sven, who may turn out to be a deadly distraction. Will Derry emerge victorious from the showdownat the Craniopolis, or will the price of freedom mean sacrificing the man she loves?"--Page 4 of cover.