Though the Phoenix and the Banshee have divided the precious solar panels they teamed up to salvage at the end of Phoenix Rising, both ships are missing the crucial component that will allow them to actually put the panels to use. And so Toby and Ayla warily team up to infiltrate a sect of sun worshippers to steal the equipment.

They think entering trials to be chosen as the Sun and Moon for the sect's upcoming sun festival will be an easy feat, but learn all too soon the true cost of failure. There are other young couples equally desperate to win who will do whatever is necessary to eliminate the competition. Enduring days without sleep, hours sitting in the blistering sun, and a deadly maze, Toby and Ayla need to work together to win.

Still, past betrayals may be forgiven, but never forgotten. And their alliance could go up in flames at any minute.