The author of the acclaimed mystery The Unquiet Dead delivers her first fantasy novel—the opening installment in a thrilling quartet—a tale of religion, oppression, and political intrigue that radiates with heroism, wonder, and hope.
A dark power called the Talisman has risen in the land, born of ignorance and persecution. Led by a man known only known as the One-eyed Preacher, it is a cruel and terrifying movement bent on world domination—a superstitious patriarchy that suppresses knowledge and subjugates women. And it is growing.
But there are those who fight the Talisman's spread, including the Companions of Hira, a diverse group of influential women whose power derives from the Claim—the magic inherent in the words of a sacred scripture. Foremost among them is Arian and her apprentice, Sinnia, skilled warriors who are knowledgeable in the Claim. This daring pair have long stalked Talisman slave-chains, searching for clues and weapons to help them battle their enemy’s oppressive ways. Now, they may have discovered a miraculous symbol of hope that can destroy the One-eyed Preacher and his fervid followers: The Bloodprint, a dangerous text the Talisman has tried to erase from the world.
Finding a copy of The Bloodprint promises to be their most dangerous undertaking yet, an arduous journey that will lead them deep into Talisman territory. Though they will be helped by allies—a loyal ex-slave and Arian’s former confidante and sword master—both Arian and Sinnia know that this mission may well be their last.
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“With her clipped British accent, Jenny Bryce is an enchanting guide to Khan’s fantastical world…Bryce does an admirable job of vocally creating distinctive characters in this jam-packed volume, the first in a planned quartet. She successfully leads listeners through many regions and the tribes that inhabit them in this fascinating production.”
— AudioFile
“Bold, intriguing characters, vivid scenarios, and intense conflicts all set within a well-constructed, action-filled plot, Khan’s first installment in her new fantasy series is truly remarkable.”
— RT Book Reviews (4 stars)“For fans of complex fantasy series with a girl-power theme.”
— BooklistBe the first to write a review about this audiobook!
Ausma Zehanat Khan is the author of the award-winning Esa Khattak and Rachel Getty mystery series, which begins with The Unquiet Dead, as well as the critically acclaimed Khorasan Archives fantasy series. Her crime series featuring Detective Inaya Rahman begins with Blackwater Falls. She is also a contributor to the anthologies Private Investigations, Sword Stone Table, and The Perfect Crime. She is the former editor-in-chief of Muslim Girl magazine. A British-born Canadian and former adjunct law professor, she holds a PhD in international human rights law with a specialization in military intervention and war crimes in the Balkans.