The highly anticipated sequel to Flame in the Mist - an addictive, sumptuous finale that will leave readers breathless from the bestselling author of The Wrath and the Dawn
After Okami is captured in the Jukai forest, Mariko has no choice - to rescue him, she must return to Inako and face the dangers that have been waiting for her in the Heian Castle. She tricks her brother, Kenshin, and betrothed, Raiden, into thinking she was being held by the Black Clan against her will, playing the part of the dutiful bride-to-be to infiltrate the emperor's ranks and uncover the truth behind the betrayal that almost left her dead.
With the wedding plans already underway, Mariko pretends to be consumed with her upcoming nuptials, all the while using her royal standing to peel back the layers of lies and deception surrounding the imperial court. But each secret she unfurls gives way to the next, ensnaring Mariko and Okami in a political scheme that threatens their honor, their love and very the safety of the empire.
"[An] elaborate fantasy set in feudal Japan . . . Ahdieh (The Wrath & the Dawn) is immensely skilled at crafting vibrant settings inhabited by sympathetic characters with rich pasts . . . readers will enthusiastically anticipate the next installment." - Publishers Weekly
"Ahdieh's first duology (begun with The Wrath and the Dawn, 2015) propelled her to the top of the charts, and this new series starter brings that same blend of history, magic, and sensuality that drew readers in the first place." - Booklist
"This story . . . will undoubtedly enthrall readers." - Kirkus
"Rich in magical realism and cultural nuance of feudal Japan, Ahdieh's series starter begins with a girl-power bang. . . . A wonderful choice for YA shelves, especially where lush fantasy is popular." - School Library Journal
"Weaves Japanese and Korean narratives into a fun feudal samurai drama... an action-packed and well-paced young adult novel." - Washington Post
"FLAME IN THE MIST has [Renée's] signature lush and dangerous romantic adventure vibes" - Bustle
"Completely enrapturing" - Bookpage
"Alchemy, samurai, and Renée Ahdieh. Need we say more?" - Culturess
