by Martha Wells
First published 2023
Kai opens his eyes after what feels like moments but discovers he was murdered and trapped in an elaborate water prison. A lesser mage stands over him, foolishly trying to steal his demonic power for personal gain. The attempt fails spectacularly. Kai quickly realizes that significant time has passed since his assassination. The world he once knew has shifted. The Rising World Coalition now wields growing influence, though their true intentions remain unclear. Kai must reunite with his scattered allies and tap into his pain magic to uncover the truth. He needs answers to fundamental questions. Why did someone want him dead? What happened during his imprisonment? Who orchestrated his magical confinement? As Kai investigates, he discovers that the answers will bring him no comfort. The revelations ahead will test everything he believes about loyalty, power, and survival.
Genres: fiction, science-fiction, mystery, fantasy
Vibes: dark, emotional, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family, unreliable-narrator
432 pages · ebook · Tordotcom