Song of Wraiths and Ruin

In this West African folklore-inspired fantasy debut, a crown princess and a refugee are destined to destroy each other despite their growing attraction. An instant New York Times bestseller, this first entry in a duology is perfect for fans of Tomi Adeyemi, Renee Ahdieh, and Sabaa Tahir. "e;An action-packed tale of injustice, magic, and romance, this novel immerses readers in a thrilling world and narrative tantamount to that of Children of Blood and Bone."e; Publishers Weekly (starred review)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?"e;Revitalizing and exciting, Brown's debut breathes life into ancient but still relevant folk stories."e; Kirkus Reviews (starred review)"e;An explosive, stunning fantasy debut. . . . Brown's world building is diverse and brimming with political intrigue, magic, and a burgeoning romance in the best of ways. Notably, Brown uses a lush fantasy backdrop to poignantly discuss real-world issues."e; Booklist (starred review)