Apprentice magician Talisman Morning has always been lucky. It's a problem. Talis knows his luck is a magical talent -- but he can't control it. And good luck for him can mean bad luck for other people, and a lot of trouble. He's beginning to wonder whether he belongs with the magicians at all, or whether he should give up and run away ... until he meets a royal guard who asks for his help.  King's guard Jeryn de Machaut could use a magician. He thinks he's overheard a plot against the king, but he has no evidence and no support. But a wayward apprentice with a knack for being in the right place -- and stumbling over hidden objects -- might be exactly the luck Jer needs.  Together, Jer and Talis will uncover a palace conspiracy, save a king, and find their own best chance at love.