Rose Hathaway is a Dhampir, half-vampire and half-human, who is tirelessly devoted to protecting her best friend, Lissa, a Moroi Vampire Princess, from the dangers of the Strigoi, the most deadly of vampires. Training at the academy to become a guardian, Rose's resolve is tested when forbidden feelings for her instructor, Dimitri, surge within her. Complicating matters is a growing mental darkness and ominous shadows signaling a threat to the very gates of the academy. As an impending force of immortal wrath edges closer, Rose faces the ultimate trial, where the sacrifice for love could mean the difference between life and death for those she holds dear.