A Secret Atlas

A Secret Atlas by MIchael A. Stackpole. hardcover edition. ISBN: 9780739450581.

In Nalenyr, the family of the Royal Cartographer stands in a unique position. they not only draw the maps, but also explore uncharted territories, expanding and updating the existing knowledge of the world. Seven centuries ago, that world was shrunk by the magic-spawned Cataclysm, which shattered the ancient Empire into Nine Principalities and buried it in black ice. As ice and magic recede, Qiro Anturasis genius for finding new trade routes and reclaiming the old allowed Nalenyr to prosper again. Anturasis talent yielded enormous power and wealth--butit cost the iron-willed patriarch his freedom. Now it may cost his family their lives. .... Meanwhile, in the cartographers tower in the city of Moriande, a murderous act sets off a terrifying chain of events whose aftershocks will be felt around the world....