"A rousing tale of courtly intrigues and chivalrous honor" from the author of The Glass Magician (Charles de Lint, award-winning writer).

Just as hard-fought peace has come to the land of Staunton, war hero Sir Anthony Folville lies dead—but not due to his battle wounds. He has been poisoned by the medic treating him, a man supposedly paid by Queen Andred's heir to perform this dastardly act.

Now, with the prince imprisoned and accused of murder, his allies join forces to prove his innocence, including the fiancée of Sir Anthony and the royal scholar Chrysafer. They have reason to suspect the Duke of Tilbury is behind the plot—and that the queen is his next target. As spies listen in the shadows and swords clash, there is one weapon that will sway events in the traitorous duke's favor: a legendary serpent's egg with clairvoyant powers. And only Chrysafer is able to sense its magic—and stop the carnage to come . . .

"To know this book is to love it passionately. I want to live in it. I want to exchange banter with witty ne'er do wells, be boon companion to noble-hearted yet practical ladies, aid a nerdy librarian with her magic, and incidentally save the kingdom. Here is true magic." —Ellen Kushner, World Fantasy Award–winning author

"I really enjoyed reading The Serpent's Egg, and delighted in the unusual characterizations and plot." —Anne McCaffrey, New York Times–bestselling author of the Dragonriders of Pern series

"Sparkling characters, humor, and lots of action . . . A very talented writer!" —R.A. MacAvoy, John W. Campbell Award–winning author of Lens of the World