"Two predators now circle me in this den of enemies. One I came to hunt, and one I never saw coming."

Dark mages don't deal in warnings—only executions.

So when assassin-in-training Esme Salem is tasked with infiltrating a magical defense academy and eliminating Kieran Mazrov—a deadly mage with powers that could erase her kind from existence—it should be treacherous but simple. A poisonous jab to his throat. A garrote bracelet slit across his neck. No hesitation.

What she doesn't expect is Professor Dayn.

Calculating. Controlled. Lethal in every line of his body, which emits literal heat when he enters a room. He's supposed to be an academic, but nothing about him screams scholarly. And the more she tries to pursue her mission, the more dangerous he becomes...

She came to kill.

She might just end up undone—unless she can undo both predators first.

Prepared to enter the game? If you like your magic dark, your men dangerous, and your heroines delightfully unhinged—this one's for you.

This story is a slow-burn enemies to (hopefully) lovers. It contains a cast of predatory beings, including dragons, mages, vampires, dark fae, werewolves, and incubi. Enter at your own risk. And be warned: If you're a fan of Fourth Wing, Harry Potter, or Zodiac Academy, sleep might become your sacrifice. Welcome to Darkbirch. Your next obsession begins now.

Contains mature content. A complete list of content warnings can be found on the author's website. Narrated in duet style.