Phury has sacrificed himself for the good of the Black Dagger Brotherhood, becoming the male responsible for keeping the Brotherhood's bloodlines alive. As Primale of the Chosen, he is obligated to father the sons and daughters who will ensure that the traditions of the race survive, and that there are warriors to fight those who want all vampires killed.
As his first mate, the Chosen Cormia wants to win not only his body but also his heart for herself. She is drawn to the noble responsibility behind the emotionally scarred Primale. But Phury has never allowed himself to know pleasure or joy. As the war with the Lessening Society grows grim, tragedy looms over the Brotherhood's mansion, and Phury must decide between duty and love.