In a kingdom called the Dells, Fire is the last human-shaped monster, with unimaginable beauty and the ability to control the minds of those around her, but even with these gifts she cannot escape the strife that overcomes her world.

Queen Bitterblue of Monsea has been doing the hard work of rebuilding her kingdom for nearly five years when she first learns about the magical land to east where people and animals perform feats greater than even the most impressive Grace. When her envoy's ships drown, Bitterblue takes off on a diplomatic mission with her most trusted advisors, while politicians in Monsea consider what could happen if the Queen were to disappear as well.