Shimmer and Burn

Taranta’s debut features a tough-as-nails heroine, a complicated magic system, and a gritty fantasy world full of menace and wonder. Despite the threat of plague in surrounding Avinea, 16-year-old Faris Locke longs to escape the walled city of Brindaigel and the brutality of King Perrotte. After Faris, her sister Cadence, and her beloved Thaelan are caught attempting to flee, Cadence is sold into slavery, Thaelan is hanged, and Faris is forced to brawl for money in hopes of buying Cadence’s freedom. When the king’s executioner offers Faris a job, she can’t refuse, but she’ll be bound by magic to Princess Bryn, who is determined to take her father’s throne. After escaping to Avinea through the sewers, Faris and Bryn meet a magician named North and his apprentice, who are determined to stop the plague and save Avinea. In a crowded fantasy field, Taranta’s story stands out for its mature writing, inventive and scary creatures (and even scarier humans), and complex and often ruthless characters. The conclusion suggests that Faris’s adventures are only getting started. Ages 14–up. Agent: Josh Adams, Adams Literary. (Aug.)