The story also discusses questions of gender inequality, freedom, self-worth, and identity.

This intricate world with magic-fueled, action-packed fight scenes and snarky, colloquial banter is loosely infused with Asian Indian cultural references. When Jatin finally leaves the academy, a series of mishaps results in both of them hiding their true identities even as they grow closer in their fight against a ruthless gang. He and Adraa compare their magical prowess and progress through letters. Jatin, heir to their more magical neighbor Naupure, has spent years polishing his nine colors of magic at the academy, away from the realities of ruling.

Adraa’s strong sense of duty to her people leads her to fight against the corruption within her kingdom. With half its population Untouched by the Gods-unable to use magic-Belwar struggles with inequities between the Touched and Untouched, reminiscent of societal class divisions. Now Wickery's fate is in the hands of rivals.? Fianc es.? Partners.Pledged to each other since childhood, Adraa and Jatin navigate the complex politics of their respective kingdoms.Īdraa is the heir to Belwar, and while powerful in most types of magic, she has yet to take the royal ceremony to prove her competency in all nine forms and, with it, her right to someday rule. Only, destiny has other plans and with the criminal underbelly of Belwar suddenly making a move for control, their paths cross.and neither realizes who the other is, adopting separate secret identities instead.īetween dodging deathly spells and keeping their true selves hidden, the pair must learn to put their trust in the other if either is to uncover the real threat. But after years of rivalry from afar, Adraa and Jatin only agree on one thing: their reunion will be anything but sweet. Together, their arranged marriage will unite two of Wickery's most powerful kingdoms. Is the royal heir to Naupure, a competitive wizard who's mastered all nine colors of magic, and a boy anxious to return home for the first time since he was a child. Is the royal heir of Belwar, a talented witch on the cusp of taking her royal ceremony test, and a girl who just wants to prove her worth to her people. The first book in an epic, heart-pounding fantasy duology about two royal heirs betrothed to be married, but whose loyalties are torn, and a ruthless enemy who threatens their world, perfect for fans of Sabaa Tahir, Susan Dennard, and Mary E.

Cast in firelight by dana swift