Abendau's Heir (Inheritance Trilogy #1)

First book in the trilogy. Author, Francis Knight said. "A bright and fresh new voice in the genre, brimming with imagination, subtle worldbuilding and engaging characters"

"Everyone has a plan to use Kare. His cruel mother, the Empress, demands he accepts his position as her only heir. His father's rebellion want a figurehead to stand against her. Kare just wants to avoid the horrific future foretold for him."