First published 1998
Princess Antia leaves her comfortable life on the twin continents of Komilant and Kamalant to cross the Small Sea. She travels to the desert island of Roshan for her betrothal to Jodril, son of Chief Hamrab. The alien landscape and customs shock her. Antia refuses to abandon her identity in this foreign place. She discovers Roshan buzzes with whispers of ancient secrets while political enemies fight a vicious battle for control. Antia decides to uncover the mystery herself. The island transforms those who dwell there through timeless knowledge that hides beneath the scheming and betrayal. Antia becomes trapped in explosive events beyond her influence. She must decide whether the secret belongs to her if she can solve it. The enigmatic Sandwriter holds the key to answers that drive this compelling story of identity and belonging.
Genres: historical-fiction, adventure, mystery, fantasy
Vibes: atmospheric, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: fish-out-of-water, political-machinations
Setting: Komilant, Kamalant, Small Sea, Roshan
Period: Ancient
Hardcover · Simon & Schuster (Juv)