Raven Scholar (2026)

The Sunday Times bestseller from an electrifying new voice in epic fantasy is a richly woven tale of imperial intrigue, ruthless competition and one scholar’s quest to uncover the truth. After twenty-four years on the throne, Bersun the Brusque, emperor of Orrun, is ready to end his reign. In the dizzying heat of midsummer, seven contenders compete to replace him. Trained at rival monasteries, each is inspired by a sacred animal: Fox, Raven, Tiger, Ox, Bear, Monkey or Hound. An eighth contender, the Dragon proxy, will be revealed only after the trials begin. These exceptional warriors, thinkers and strategists are the best of the best, but then one of them is murdered. The brilliant and unconventional Neema Kraa must investigate. As she hunts for the killer, darker forces gather. If Neema succeeds, she may win the throne, whether she wants it or not. If she fails, she will condemn herself to death and set in motion events that could doom the empire. The English-language book combines historical mystery, gothic charm, intellectual intrigue, romance and epic fantasy.