In an oppressive empire where all sorcerers must serve its mysterious ruler, Singer has a secret. He entertains people by singing ballads, but he can also put magic into his verses. This magic is weak, so Singer depends on his quick wits in dangerous situations. As he travels deeper into the empire’s heart to find clues about his missing parents, Singer has to become increasingly careful with magic, because a single misstep will cost him freedom… or worse.

His only possessions consist of a lute and a handful of songs. Well, more recently, there is also a bracelet of gold and gemstones that should cost a fortune, but it seems to have secrets of its own. Answers to Singer’s questions are hidden in the capital, in the shadows of the ominous black tower, where darkness itself has been ruling the empire for a century. Yet what he finds there is nothing he could have expected.

A Ballad for Darkness is a tale of music, mystery, and unlikely love, in a world where verses can carry magic.