First published 2023
Monkey travels the Silk Road under the protection of Samir, a charismatic con artist who calls himself the Seller of Dreams. Samir saved the young monk's life through his gift for persuasion, but that same silver tongue has made him powerful enemies. Professional killers now hunt Samir across the ancient trade routes. Monkey strikes a bargain to repay his debt: if he can prevent six attempts on Samir's life, he will earn his freedom. The monk throws himself into protecting the man who rescued him, but each assassination attempt grows more dangerous than the last. As they journey deeper into hostile territory, Monkey discovers that keeping Samir alive requires more than quick reflexes. The road tests both his loyalty and his survival instincts. Freedom awaits if he can outwit six killers, but the price of failure is death for them both.
Genres: historical-fiction, adventure, mystery, thriller
Vibes: atmospheric, fast-paced, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family, loyalty
Setting: Silk Road
Period: ancient
224 pages · Hardcover · Levine Querido
Content warnings: violence