The Elements
A key part of the story is the fact that the people can wield the elements: water, air, earth, fire, wood, and metal. However, this ability is manipulated by many for their own means. However, Tavi, an orphaned boy, is unable to wield the elements for some reason and as such, must rely on his wits to save himself from the attack by the Marats – the message is clear, magic and power over the elements are not all it takes to defeat one’s enemies.
War
The Marat and the Aleran’s have been at war with each other ever since the Marat killed the First Lord of Alera, Gaius Sextus’ son, Princeps Septimus. However, Gaius is getting old and as such loyalties are shifting. Amara’s mentor, Fidelias, betrays Gaius and joins forces with the Marat to overtake Alera. This results in a war that Amara is unprepared for but still manages to prevail in.
Love
Bernard is a widowed man and father, having lost both his wife and child. He cares for his sister and his nephew, Tavi. When they are attacked by the Marat, he is forced to fight alongside Amara to defeat them. The two share their very different backgrounds with each other, but despite their different natures, they find themselves falling in love.
