Starred review from July 29, 2024
Set 20 years after the events of the Ember in the Ashes series, this propulsive, action-packed duology launch by Tahir (All My Rage) finds the world once again in danger from both human and supernatural forces. Desperate to save her people from the cruel false prophet laying claim to the throne, orphaned Kegari-born Aiz escapes prison to search for the all-powerful cleric who once led her people before disappearing. Elsewhere, Sirsha, a down-on-her-luck Jaduna tracker banished by her tribe for an unspeakable crime, is contracted to use her ability to communicate with natural elements to hunt a killer targeting children. In her pursuit, she encounters Quil, the reluctant crown prince of the Martial Empire, as he evades attacking Kegari forces and attempts to reclaim the empire’s land. Tahir expertly balances a large cast of rotating narrators that incorporates new characters and fan favorites from the previous books. The stakes are higher than ever in this enrapturing spin-off series, which builds on established lore and adds layers of complexity, culminating in an expansive and brutal adventure ideal for longtime followers and newcomers alike. Characters are intersectionally diverse. Ages 14–up. Agent: Alexandra Machinist, CAA.
