Waring royal families, forbidden magic, bloodthirsty revenge and enchanted horse racing - This Dark Descent is a fast-paced, accessible YA fantasy insprired by Jewish folklore.

Enter the corrupt world of Veradell, where warring monarchs vie for a kingdom full of forbidden magic, illicit romance and cut-throat horse racing. Steeped in Jewish folklore, this fast-paced YA fantasy by Kalyn Josephson is perfect for fans of Leigh Bardugo's Six of Crows.

Mikira Rusel is out of options. With her father imprisoned and facing rising debts, there’s only one way to save her family from ruin: enter the Illinir, a high-stakes, cross-country horse race known for its high death toll as much as its flashy prize money.

To have any chance of success she’ll have to recruit Ari, an unlicensed enchanter, Damien, a lord in the midst of a succession battle, and Reid; the brooding horse trainer who will be the key to Mikira’s survival.

All her accomplices have reasons of their own to help Mikira - and their own blood feuds to avenge. And as alliances deepen and romances form, Mikira will have to discover where everyone’s true loyalties lie.

In a world as dangerous as this, remember to keep your enemies close and your friends closer . . .

This Dark Descent by Kalyn Josephson features gorgeous full colour character artwork printed on the inside cover.

"An uncommonly arresting fantasy that questions the price of goodness, the cost of magic, and the depths of humanity." - Booklist, starred review

"Josephson presents . . . ever-evolving figures with interestingly complementary approaches to the world and the circumstances they find themselves in. Jewish history strongly informs the backstory of this fantasy world’s people." - Publishers Weekly

"Original and engaging." - Kirkus Reviews