Empire in Black and Gold (Shadows of the Apt Book 1)

Empire in Black and Gold is the first book in the Shadows of the Apt epic fantasy series. The Lowlands' city states have enjoyed decades of peace as centers of civilization, but that peace is ending. A distant empire has been conquering neighboring territories using highly trained soldiers and advanced combat techniques, and now has the city states in its sights. Stenwold Maker, an aging spymaster, artificer, and statesman, is among the few who recognize the approaching threat as the empire's armies draw closer. He understands that war will devastate the lands and attempts to convince the cities' leaders of the danger. However, his efforts to warn his people are complicated by the need to ensure his own survival. This novel is followed by Dragonfly Falling, the second book in the series.