"The Will of the Empress" is a fantasy novel by Sharon Shinn, part of the Twelve Houses series. It follows the story of Empress Phaedra, who must navigate political intrigue and personal challenges after the death of her husband. The narrative explores themes of power, loyalty, and the complexities of leadership. The novel features a diverse cast of characters, including Senneth, a powerful woman with the ability to manipulate emotions, and Talia, a skilled warrior. Together, they confront various threats to the empire while uncovering secrets that could change their world forever.