Crown of Shadows

Unlikely allies Damien and Tarrant are faced with an enemy who may prove invulnerable—a demon who has declared war on mankind. Called Calesta, he is a master of illusion and devourer of pain, and he plans to remake the human species until it exists only to sate his unquenchable thirst for suffering.

The war against Calesta will take Damien and Tarrant from the depths of Hell to the birthplace of demons and beyond—in a battle that could cost them not only their lives, but the very soul of mankind.

Crown of Shadows is the stunning conclusion to C. S. Friedman's Coldfire trilogy.Praise for the Coldfire trilogy

“Readers will be enthralled.” —Publishers Weekly

“Complex and compelling ... The richly detailed setting and strong supporting characters give substance to a tale that explores the consequences of embracing evil in hopes of achieving its redemption. A priority purchase.” —Library Journal

“Stunning…. A feast for those who like their fantasies dark, and as emotionally heady as a rich, red wine.” —Locus

“The creative genius of C. S. Friedman burns brightly with the publication of her stunning new novel, blending elements of science fiction and fantasy into an extraordinary reading experience.” —Rave Reviews

“Some of the best writing I have seen in quite a while, and the ending is excellent. Buy this one. Don't wait for it to come out in paperback. Very highly recommended.” —Science Fiction Review

“A good mystery wrapped in an adventure story and set against an original and often fascinating background.” —Science Fiction Chronicle

“Epic fantasy with a keen, dark edge ... shows off Friedman's gifts of craft and authorial insight.” —South Bend Tribune

“Words do not suffice to describe the sheer imaginative genius, not to mention incredible power, of Ms. Friedman's formidable storytelling gift—you simply have to experience it.” —Romantic Times

“Hard to put down.” —Midwest Book ReviewAn acknowledged master of Dark Fantasy, Celia Friedman is a John W. Campbell award finalist, and the author of the highly acclaimed Coldfire Trilogy, New York Times Notable Book of the Year This Alien Shore, In Conquest Born, The Madness Season, The Wilding and The Magister Trilogy.  Ms. Friedman worked for twenty years as a professional costume designer, but retired from that career in 1996 to focus on her writing. She lives in Virginia, and can be contacted via her website, www.csfriedman.com.