by Fonda Lee
First published 2025
Jun watches his twin brother display the dragon scales that mark him as blessed with special abilities. Jun has no such birthmark, no magical powers, and no permission from his father to compete in the Guardian's Tournament. The contest happens every six years to choose a new protector for the magical Scroll of Earth. Jun's family was banished after his father made a terrible mistake, separating Jun from his mother and twin. Now sixteen, Jun believes winning the tournament will restore their honor. He hides in the wagon of Chang, a performer traveling to the capital with his daughter Ren. As the competition begins, Jun discovers his fighting skills against opponents with supernatural advantages. The stakes grow beyond personal redemption when Jun realizes the tournament may determine not just his family's future, but whether his country survives.
Genres: adventure, fantasy, action, young-adult
Vibes: fast-paced, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Guardian's Tournament, Scroll of Earth
Period: every six years
341 pages · Hardcover · Wednesday Books