When an empire commits an atrocity, an orphaned princess makes a stand.
Cynthia has struggled for years against the powers guiding her life. She wants to take back control. She wants the freedom to marry a man she loves and, more than anything, she wants to live up to the expectation she’s been saddled with. In her own mind she is far from worthy of being the head healer of her people. Can she overcome her self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy? Can she expand her awareness and become kinder to herself? Or will she allow everything that ever brought her happiness to slip through her grasp and turn to ashes?
★★★★★
amazon review
As an American, I’ve been taught my whole life that we are a “melting pot” but it seems like many have forgotten that before we melded together, the ingredients were very different, and those differences make us what we are today. Even though this is in Sweden, it is still very relevant to how minorities are often treated in the U.S.
★★★★★
amazon review
I enjoyed reading about Bashir’s journey and cannot wait to read more. I don’t think I’d ever read a book set in Sweden before or a book with so many, very well done, cultural elements.
★★★★
amazon review
I’d describe it as a shifter book for people who don’t like shifter books. As a YA book, there are no rippling muscles and sex scenes, but an emphasis on family, trust and overcoming systemic racism. All things which are especially relevant in today’s climate. The storytelling felt fresh and non-confrontational, with a quick pace and a feel-good vibe despite the tough subjects of racism, drug abuse and bigotry. For me it was a fascinating read and an insight into a much bigger story, told in the author’s inimitable style.
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