The Kinder Poison

Mae’s ancient Egypt–inspired fantasy debut follows 16-year-old Whisperer Zahru, whose inherited power—animal communication, from her stablekeeper father—is considered unimpressive stacked against those of her fellow magical citizens. The dying monarch of Orkena, the Mestrah, has announced the gods’ reinstatement of an ancient tradition called the Crossing, which determines the kingdom’s next ruler through a desert race. Encouraged by her best friend, Hen, Zahru decides to assume the identity of her late mother, a powerful Potionmaker, to watch the lavish selection trials. The Mestrah’s three children—firstborn but ill-favored Prince Kasta; illegitimate, reluctant-to-compete Prince Jet; and charming, hedonistic Princess Sakira—will choose teammates for the competition, in which the first to reach the Glass Caves secures the crown with a divine-designated human sacrifice. When Zahru makes an enemy of Kasta, he marks her as the sacrifice, setting into motion a harrowing journey toward certain death. The engaging cast stands out, especially the antagonists, whose well-developed backgrounds ensure sustained narrative tension. Though inadequate details, particularly about Orkena’s history and magic, sometimes mar the worldbuilding, Zahru’s amusing mental dialogue and nascent romance complement the fast-paced plot, resulting in an entertaining duology opener. Ages 12–up. [em]Agent: Brianne Johnson, Writers House. (June) [/em]