Shadowmarch was originally released between June 2001 and August 2002 as a bi-weekly episodic serial online, with a one-time $14.99 charge necessary to read chapters beyond the five initial free ones, however a lack of subscribers led to the completed first novel (and subsequent volumes) returning to orthodox publishing.

Shadowplay was originally a trilogy but Tad Williams announced in late 2009 that there would be a fourth installment to the series.

A furtive bargain was struck at the gates of Southmarch and the castle was spared, but centuries of enmity will not be so easily appeased.

Meanwhile, Barrick, heir to Southmarch and cursed with madness, has crossed the Shadowline into the realm of his people's ancient enemy.

Qinnitan, junior wife, must flee the royal household or die, her greatest secret as yet hidden even from herself.