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Published Mar 2021
368 pages
Genre: Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Speculative, Alt. History
Publication Information
In this sequel to A River of Royal Blood, Eva and Isa must find a way to work together if they want to save their queendom in the thrilling conclusion to this royal fantasy duology.
Now on the run, Eva is desperate for answers about her transformation and her true heritage. Along with Aketo, a small contingent of guards, and the sister she could not kill, Eva flees Ternain in hopes of finding friends and allies to the north--not to mention Baccha--to help her decide what to do next. Princess Isa is a difficult, unremorseful captive, and Eva knows better than to trust her sister, but she wants to. Despite their history, Eva is convinced that to survive the growing unrest in the queendom, she and her sister must make peace. Since the Entwining ceremony, Eva's and Isa's lives have been bonded, and each can only die by the other's hand. This perhaps provides an opening for a truce and a more hopeful future for both the sisters and the queendom, if only Isa would see reason and give up the battle for the throne.
With the two princesses on the run, the Queendom of Myre is on the brink of a revolution. And without Baccha to guide and train her magick, Eva must find a way not only to survive her own metamorphosis, but to unite all the people of Myre, including her sister, by finally taking the Ivory Throne.
"Themes of parental disappointment and abuse, sibling bonds, and speciesism are strongly developed and well explored. Joy's writing is exemplary; a strong plot, even pacing, and character growth (not only Eva's) all lead up to an ending...A strong and satisfying conclusion." - Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
"At its core, this story dives deep into the themes of family, belonging, identity, and sibling rivalry. These themes are adeptly blended with a fast-paced plot and incredible world building…The stakes are incredibly high in this stunning conclusion to the duology. Highly recommended for all collections." - School Library Journal (starred review)
"Tensions are high in this sequel and Joy's language is just as melodious, her world-building just as spell-binding...There's no denying Joy's talent, and readers will bask in the sisters' character arcs and the book's gratifying ending." - Booklist
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Any "Author Information" displayed below reflects the author's biography at the time this particular book was published.
Amanda Joy has an MFA from The New School, and lives in Chicago with her dog Luna.
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