by C. L. Clark
First published 2025
Ambessa Medarda has conquered armies and slain legendary beasts. She has sacrificed everything to climb the ranks of power. The realm of death itself granted her a vision of ruling the Noxian empire from its throne. But first she must claim leadership of her own clan. Her cousin Ta'Fik stands in her way. He was once her confidante, but now he contests her claim to power. Ta'Fik knows the bloody secrets of her past and refuses to let her rise. The battle for the Medardas will decide more than succession. Ambessa's daughter Mel possesses talents for breaking through hearts and minds. She wants to prove herself worthy of her mother's expectations, but Ambessa sees only a child without killer instincts. Enemies surround them on all sides. Unseen forces move through shadows. Family members turn against each other. Each day brings greater danger than the last. Ambessa will not surrender or bow to anyone. She will burn the entire world to claim her rightful place.
Genres: military-fiction, adventure, fantasy, action
Vibes: dark, emotional, fast-paced, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Noxian Empire
Period: Ancient
448 pages · Hardcover · Orbit
Content warnings: violence