In a world divided into slaves (Spinels) and masters (Pels), Rowell is a young duke who refuses to abide by the established rules. His parents died defending the rights of Spinels, and he, too, has never bought or sold a slave in his life. Then one night, a runaway Spinel named Dev steals an heirloom pendant of Rowell’s and blackmails him into purchasing his services. Dev plans to use Rowell’s wealth and authority…