THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER
Control the spice. Control the kingdom.
‘An epic, sand-swept adventure’ Ayana Gray
In the hidden desert city of Qalia, secret spice magic awakens the affinities of those who drink the misra tea. With her affinity for iron, seventeen-year-old Imani can wield a dagger like no other – and for that she has gained a reputation as the next greatest Shield, battling djinn, ghouls, and the other monsters spreading across the sands.
But ever since her brother was discovered stealing their nation’s coveted spice – a tell-tale sign of magical obsession – and disappeared into the deadly Forbidden Wastes, Imani’s reputation has been in tatters. Despite Atheer’s betrayal, there isn’t a day that goes by that she doesn’t grieve him.
Then Imani discovers signs her brother may be alive, and spreading their nation’s magic to outsiders. Desperate to find him – and to protect him – she joins the mission sent to hunt him down. Accompanied by Taha, a powerful beastseer, who enthrals and enrages her in equal measure, Imani soon discovers that many secrets lie beyond the Forbidden Wastes – and in her own heart.
Caught between her duty to her nation, and her love for her brother, Imani must decide where her loyalties lie . . . before it is too late.
The first in an epic fantasy series for fans of Sabaa Tahir, Hafsah Faizal and Elizabeth Lim, set in an Arabian-inspired land.
‘An enchanting world of tea magic and desert monsters ‘ Amélie Wen Zhao
‘A gripping fantasy adventure that YA readers are going to love!’ Lynette Noni
‘Soul-stirring’ London Shah
