Spice Road

Whoever controls the Spice . . . controls the Kingdom itself. In the hidden desert city of Qalia, secret spice magic awakens the affinities of those who drink the misra tea. With her affinity for iron, seventeen-year-old Imani can wield a dagger like no other - and for that she has gained a reputation as the next greatest Shield, battling djinn, ghouls, and the other monsters spreading across the sands. But ever since her brother was discovered stealing their nation's coveted spice - a tell-tale sign of magical obsession - and disappeared into the deadly Forbidden Wastes, Imani's reputation has been in tatters. Despite Atheer's betrayal, there isn't a day that goes by that she doesn't grieve him. Then Imani discovers signs her brother may be alive, and spreading their nation's magic to outsiders. Desperate to find him - and to protect him - she joins the mission sent to hunt him down. Accompanied by Taha, a powerful beastseer, who enthrals and enrages her in equal measure, Imani soon discovers that many secrets lie beyond the Forbidden Wastes - and in her own heart. Caught between her duty to her nation, and her love for her brother, Imani must decide where her loyalties lie . . . before it is too late. 'An epic, sand-swept adventure' Ayana Gray, New York Times bestselling author of Beasts of Prey 'An enchanting world of tea magic and desert monsters and a thrilling quest helmed by a girl whose wit is sharper than her blades' Amélie Wen Zhao, author of Blood Heir