Synopsis

An instant New York Times bestseller!

The first in a gripping fantasy duology inspired by West African folklore in which a grieving crown princess and a desperate refugee find themselves on a collision course to murder each other despite their growing attraction--from debut author Roseanne A. Brown. This New York Times bestseller is perfect for fans of Tomi Adeyemi, Renée Ahdieh, and Sabaa Tahir.

For Malik, the Solstasia festival is a chance to escape his war-stricken home and start a new life with his sisters in the prosperous desert city of Ziran. But when a vengeful spirit abducts his younger sister, Nadia, as payment to enter the city, Malik strikes a fatal deal--kill Karina, Crown Princess of Ziran, for Nadia's freedom.

But Karina has deadly aspirations of her own. Her mother, the Sultana, has been assassinated; her court threatens mutiny; and Solstasia looms like a knife over her neck. Grief-stricken, Karina decides to resurrect her mother through ancient magic . . . requiring the beating heart of a king. And she knows just how to obtain one: by offering her hand in marriage to the victor of the Solstasia competition.

When Malik rigs his way into the contest, they are set on a heart-pounding course to destroy each other. But as attraction flares between them and ancient evils stir, will they be able to see their tasks to the death?

Magic creates a centuries-long divide between peoples in this stunning debut novel inspired by North African and West African folklore. An action-packed tale of injustice, magic, and romance, this novel immerses readers in a thrilling world and narrative reminiscent of Children of Blood and Bone. (Publishers Weekly, An Anti-Racist Children's and YA Reading List)

Don't miss the second book in this epic duology, A Psalm of Storms and Silence!

Author: Roseanne A. Brown
Publisher: Balzer & Bray/Harperteen
Published: 06/02/2020
Pages: 480
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 1.15lbs
Size: 8.50h x 5.80w x 1.50d
ISBN: 9780062891495

Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 04/15/2020
Booklist 04/15/2020 pg. 51
School Library Journal 05/01/2020 pg. 64
Publishers Weekly 05/18/2020
Bulletin of Ctr for Child Bks 07/01/2020 - Book Of Special Distinction
Horn Book Magazine 09/01/2020 pg. 83
Hornbook Guide to Children 07/01/2020 - Superior,Well Above Average