Kiar, royal daughter of a human father and swanfolk mother, is devastated when her sisters are able to take swan form and she is not. As next in line to the throne, Kiar is responsible for protecting the human kingdom of Valenia; but when three young swanfolk arrive to be fostered in the royal family, her friendship with spirited Willow and growing feelings for tall, thoughtful Tuan make her feel even more different. Her inability to change shape is not the only problem Kiar faces; the king of neighboring Noermark is determined to bring Valenia under his rule— either by force or by guile— including sending his son to ask for her hand in marriage. Facing down a human enemy is one thing, but when dark magic threatens the kingdom and tragedy tears the family apart, it's up to Kiar and her swanfolk friends to defeat the supernatural forces before Valenia falls.