The Raven Bringer Saga Series by Crista McHugh

For nearly fifteen years, the people of Elgeus have believed the Raven Bringer was dead, the chaos and destruction of his reign a distant memory. They were wrong. Now he’s returned, intent on finishing what he started, beginning with the assassination of the young king. And this time, he’s not alone. It’s up to a disgraced knight and a semi-reformed thief to save the king, but in doing so, they risk exposing themselves to the executioner’s ax... moreFor nearly fifteen years, the people of Elgeus have believed the Raven Bringer was dead, the chaos and destruction of his reign a distant memory. They were wrong. Now he’s returned, intent on finishing what he started, beginning with the assassination of the young king. And this time, he’s not alone. It’s up to a disgraced knight and a semi-reformed thief to save the king, but in doing so, they risk exposing themselves to the executioner’s ax. And even if they succeed, will it be enough to pardon them from their pasts? less

She's not what she seems.He's determined to uncover the truth. After nearly being assassinated a few weeks ago, King Aerrin has reason to be on edge. The Raven Bringer has returned, and Aerrin knows he's the fiend's top target. So he's naturally suspicious about the new student at the Academy of Arcane Magics. She's too good, too advanced, and too polished to only be a young student learning her craft. Hellbent on discovering Seroney's secret, Aerrin sets out to investigate her... moreShe's not what she seems.He's determined to uncover the truth. After nearly being assassinated a few weeks ago, King Aerrin has reason to be on edge. The Raven Bringer has returned, and Aerrin knows he's the fiend's top target. So he's naturally suspicious about the new student at the Academy of Arcane Magics. She's too good, too advanced, and too polished to only be a young student learning her craft. Hellbent on discovering Seroney's secret, Aerrin sets out to investigate her. King Aerrin is perceptive--and right. She's not who she claims to be. Pretending to be a student, the half-elf master mage, Seroney, has been placed at the Academy on a covert mission. The closer Aerrin comes to uncovering the truth about her, the more danger they are both in. But when the Raven Bringer retaliates against her, Seroney must decide what's more important: duty or revenge. less