In the contest to keep their magic, the only options may be die . or destroy.

Each year, the UNITED STATES Confederation of Mages assesses every sixteen-year-old novice. Some will end up being chosen. The others must undergo an operation to demolish their magical ability unless they demonstrate themselves in the incomprehensible and brutal Mages’ Examination.

Disadvantaged by her parents’ low standing, Rocio Lopez provides devoted herself to growing her considerable talent to receive a location in the Confederation. Their rejection leaves her reeling-and decided to combat to keep her magic.

Long ashamed of his mediocre abilities, Finn Lockwood knows the Confederation accepted him only because of his prominent family. Declaring for the Examination instead means a chance to confirm his true worth.

Thrown in to the examining with little preparation, Rocio and Finn end up becoming unlikely allies-and possibly more. But the Examination holds secrets more horrifying than either could possess imagined. What are the examiners actually screening them for? And as the tests become more and more vicious, just how much are they ready to sacrifice to win?

Contains mature themes.