Return of the Black Rose

Return of the Black Rose is the second novel in The Black Rose Trilogy. It continues the quest of Carmen, Sister-heir, and Aton, the mutant outlaw, to defeat the priesthood’s bid to create a theocracy in both their lands. Returning to the Imperium on a Robin Hood mission, Aton deviates from the plan and attacks a priest. This results in his expulsion. Carmen is hurt and angry that he’s sabotaged their future together. Convincing herself to move on, she dates another, but her heart remains Aton’s. Through family connections, she joins a conspiracy within the Imperium Great Houses. This Civilist movement works legally to strip the priests of their power to enforce the law, collect taxes, and indoctrinate young schoolchildren. The priesthood strikes back. Aton becomes a notorious outlaw, declared an enemy of the Church punishable by execution. She must save him.