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.
Read the first two chapters
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"Mythopoeic Award-winner Durst launches her Queens of Renthia series with a stellar and imaginative tale."
-- Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)
"Durst presents a thrilling beginning to a sweeping series about searching for sovereignty and truth in order to save one's land."
-- Library Journal (Starred Review)
"Known for YA novels like The Girl Who Could Not Dream, Durst dives into adult fantasy with thrilling results."
-- Shelf Awareness (Starred Review)
"A truly wonderful fantasy story. Filled with fresh ideas and excitement, told with verve and heart."
-- Terry Brooks, New York Times best-selling author of the Shannara series
"Thrilling, heartrending, enchanting, absolutely un-put-down-able!"
-- Tamora Pierce, New York Times best-selling author of the Tortall series
Read additional reviews.
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Download hi-res cover art by Stephan Martiniere.
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Also available as an audiobook:
The Queen of Blood
Audio Edition
written by Sarah Beth Durst
narrated by Khristine Hvam
available now from HarperAudio
Listen to a sample
Purchase Audible edition
or Audio CD
International Editions:
Die Blutkönigin
German Translation
available now from
Penhaligon (Random House)
German ISBN: 978-3-7645-3188-1
The Queen of Blood
Australian Edition
available now from
HarperCollins Australia
Australian ISBN: 97800626620641
The Queen of Blood
Russian Translation
available now from
Eksmo
Russian ISBN: 9785041153670
Coming soon:
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