Publishers Weekly
★ 07/29/2024
Set 20 years after the events of the Ember in the Ashes series, this propulsive, action-packed duology launch by Tahir (All My Rage) finds the world once again in danger from both human and supernatural forces. Desperate to save her people from the cruel false prophet laying claim to the throne, orphaned Kegari-born Aiz escapes prison to search for the all-powerful cleric who once led her people before disappearing. Elsewhere, Sirsha, a down-on-her-luck Jaduna tracker banished by her tribe for an unspeakable crime, is contracted to use her ability to communicate with natural elements to hunt a killer targeting children. In her pursuit, she encounters Quil, the reluctant crown prince of the Martial Empire, as he evades attacking Kegari forces and attempts to reclaim the empire’s land. Tahir expertly balances a large cast of rotating narrators that incorporates new characters and fan favorites from the previous books. The stakes are higher than ever in this enrapturing spin-off series, which builds on established lore and adds layers of complexity, culminating in an expansive and brutal adventure ideal for longtime followers and newcomers alike. Characters are intersectionally diverse. Ages 14–up. Agent: Alexandra Machinist, CAA. (Oct.)
From the Publisher
★"The stakes are higher than ever in this enrapturing spin-off series, which builds on established lore and adds layers of complexity, culminating in an expansive and brutal adventure ideal for longtime followers and newcomers alike." —PW (starred review)
★"Sabaa Tahir is an expert storyteller and Heir is another feather in her cap. This is a book that will linger with readers long after the final pages—enjoy the ride." —Booklist (starred review)
★"A welcome blend of mystique and weightiness—plus a dollop of romance—that will delight anyone seeking more complexity in young adult fantasy.”—BookPage (starred review)
"A breathtaking, propulsive triumph. Brimming with unforgettable magic, betrayal, and romance, every chapter keeps you guessing. Sabaa Tahir is an unmatched storyteller—I'll read anything she writes." —Alex Aster, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Lightlark
"An incredible tapestry of treachery, romance, and heart pounding storytelling. Heir is a tour de force of fantasy that will leave readers breathless and boneless and aching for more." —Stephanie Garber, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Once Upon A Broken Heart
"Tahir has outdone herself, transporting readers to a well-loved world that feels as fresh as it does familiar. She’s masterfully built a deeply, complex new cast of characters, a rich landscape of lore, riveting twists, all wrapped up in a deliciously angsty romance." —J. Elle, New York Times bestselling author of House of Marionne
"In a triumphant return to her glorious world, Sabaa Tahir blazes a new trail. I was entranced by the propulsive storytelling and deeply-drawn world of Heir, alongside brilliant new hero's and a few familiar faces. Brilliance and darkness abounds as we journey across seas, jungles, deserts, and the desperation of the human heart. This will be a delight for fantasy fans of all ages, and a battle cry to everyone trying to make a difference in their own lives." —Victoria Aveyard, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Red Queen
"A fantasy with complex characterization that will build anticipation for the next entry." —Kirkus
Kirkus Reviews
2024-07-19
Three young people find their places in a world of vengeance and destiny in National Book Award winner Tahir’s duology opener set in the multicultural world of her An Ember in the Ashes series.
Aiz, from the impoverished nation of Kegar, seeks revenge against Tiral bet-Hiwa, an air squadron commander who, as a child, murdered Aiz’s fellow orphans. Guided by a voice claiming to be Mother Div, Kegar’s first queen, Aiz escapes imprisonment after her failed assassination attempt on Tiral and embarks on a journey to free Mother Div’s trapped spirit. In the Martial Empire, Sirsha, a skilled tracker with magical abilities who’s been banished from her homeland, is saved by a stranger who hires her to hunt an unnatural killer. Quil, the crown prince of the Martial Empire, faces an invasion by the Kegari and the lingering threat of a mysterious force responsible for recent murders, including those of two of his loved ones. As the storylines converge, Sirsha and Quil cross paths, leading to revelations about the insidious force. The story explores the blurred line between good and evil and the lengths one will go to for a better life. Tahir’s deep and intricate worldbuilding requires time for readers to fully grasp. Following a slow start, the plot engages as pieces fall into place, leading up to an unexpected ending. The beautiful writing compensates for the romantic relationships, which develop quickly and somewhat inorganically.
A fantasy with complex characterization that will build anticipation for the next entry.(Fantasy. 14-18)
