Second in the Federation Chronicles series.

Major Lara McDaniel is a by-the-book type of officer. Being in charge of the Emperor's safety on board the cruiser The Federation and commanding the Imperial bodyguards isn't an easy job, but she's up to the challenge. At least until the entire crew is poisoned and her Emperor kidnapped.

Former Squad leader and now space scavenger Riley has had enough of military living to last him forever. He likes his life nice and uncomplicated, going from space station to space station looking to buy, sell, or trade his goods. What he isn't looking for is a bossy Major who commandeers his ship and his help.

Riley and Lara must find her Emperor and discover who is behind the kidnapping before an intergalactic war breaks out. Meanwhile, a different sort of war is brewing between Riley and Lara, one that pits Lara's brain against the desires of her body. As the danger increases, so to does the fire that is growing between the two reluctant partners.