An idealistic young student and a banished warrior become allies in a battle to save their realm in this first book of a mesmerizing epic fantasy series, filled with political intrigue, violent magic, malevolent spirits, and thrilling adventure.
Everything has a spirit: the willow tree with leaves that kiss the pond, the stream that feeds the river, the wind that exhales fresh snow . . .
But the spirits that reside within this land want to rid it of all humans. One woman stands between these malevolent spirits and the end of humankind: the queen. She alone has the magical power to prevent the spirits from destroying every man, woman, and child. But queens are still just human, and no matter how strong or good, the threat of danger always looms.
With the position so precarious, young women are chosen to train as heirs. Daleina, a seemingly quiet academy student, is under no illusions as to her claim to the throne, but simply wants to right the wrongs that have befallen the land. Ven, a disgraced champion, has spent his exile secretly fighting against the growing number of spirit attacks. Joining forces, these daring partners embark on a treacherous quest to find the source of the spirits’ restlessness—a journey that will test their courage and trust, and force them to stand against both enemies and friends to save their land . . . before it’s bathed in blood.
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“This intense beginning to the Queens of Renthia series will please readers of Sarah J. Maas’ Throne of Glass…Daleina is a relatable heroine from the start, and Ven’s devotion to his duty, regardless of the danger it entails, makes him a worthy and believable mentor for her journey.”
— RT Book Reviews (4 stars)
“A stellar and imaginative tale…In addition to a solid cast of characters and great political intrigue, Durst delivers some fascinating worldbuilding…and mysterious antagonists.”
— Publishers Weekly (starred review)Be the first to write a review about this audiobook!
Sarah Beth Durst is the author of fantasy novels for children, teens, and adults. She won an American Library Association Alex Award and a Mythopoeic Fantasy Award and has been a finalist three times for the Andre Norton Nebula Award. Several of her books have been optioned for film and television. She is a graduate of Princeton University. Visit her at www.sarahbethdurst.com.
Khristine Hvam has won several AudioFile Earphones Awards, placed three times as a finalist for the prestigous Audie Award, and won the Audie Award for Best Narration in 2012 and 2013. She studied acting for the theater and film, and her voice can be heard in Pokémon, World of Warcraft, and in various television and radio commercials.