The Ninth Tithe

A potter's daughter chosen as sacrifice to an ageless sorcerer discovers that the centuries-old ritual protecting her village has been devouring its victims alive. Lise Baranova expected servitude when she was taken to the crumbling keep at the edge of the Gloom—a vast, sentient marshland whose black waters rot everything they touch. Instead, she finds failing wards, forbidden records, and a desperate man hiding an unforgivable secret. With the marsh pressing closer and something ancient stirring in its depths, Lise must decide whether to flee or fight a battle no one before her has survived.