First published 2017
Nemesis stands beside Tyrus as he claims the Imperial throne. Their vision transforms the Empire. Science will reach beyond the elite. Creatures like Nemesis will gain recognition and worth. The teenage Emperor and his partner plan a future without hiding, scheming, or killing. The Grandiloquy refuses to accept this change. For centuries, the ruling class has controlled planets and systems. They plot against Tyrus and dismiss Nemesis as merely a creature, unfit to be Empress. Nemesis faces an impossible choice. She cannot protect Tyrus by returning to her former role as a killing machine. Instead, she must demonstrate the humanity she has discovered within herself to the entire Empire. The fight for the throne demands actions that contradict their ideals. Nemesis loves Tyrus completely. They are partners in this transformation. Yet proving her humanity may require inhuman choices. If they compromise their principles to win, they risk losing more than political power. They could sacrifice the very values that drove them to seek change.
Genres: science-fiction, romance, fantasy, political-thriller
Vibes: intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: chosen-one, enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Empire
Period: Future
384 pages · Unknown Binding · Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Content warnings: violence