13 hours 40 minutes
English language
Published March 11, 2025 by Bolinda Publishing Pty Ltd.
A young witch forced to play concubine for her empirical captor, finally breaks free to find a life of her own, but even those with the power to call Death cannot outrun their past...All witches must serve the cruel and immortal Emperor Yamueto. But after four years of terror and abuse, Khana not only kills one of his favorite courtiers with her magic, but also discovers the secret of his power and immortality: he's been making deals with Death. And now, so is she. Armed with magic that she doesn't fully understand, Khana flees the empire and stumbles into a small mountain town filled with fierce warriors that ostracize her for being a witch, despite using her abilities to heal their sick and injured. There, her magic and courage are put to the test as she is forced to stop running and fight back against the emperor that wants her …
A young witch forced to play concubine for her empirical captor, finally breaks free to find a life of her own, but even those with the power to call Death cannot outrun their past...All witches must serve the cruel and immortal Emperor Yamueto. But after four years of terror and abuse, Khana not only kills one of his favorite courtiers with her magic, but also discovers the secret of his power and immortality: he's been making deals with Death. And now, so is she. Armed with magic that she doesn't fully understand, Khana flees the empire and stumbles into a small mountain town filled with fierce warriors that ostracize her for being a witch, despite using her abilities to heal their sick and injured. There, her magic and courage are put to the test as she is forced to stop running and fight back against the emperor that wants her dead. But every deal she makes with Death takes another piece of her soul. And there's only so much Khana can give before she turns into the very monster she's trying to destroy.
I read this book in a matter of days, which is somewhat unusual for me. I think Khana's story of healing from CSA trauma was very well done and moving. I also really enjoyed the themes of community power vs individual power. I also found the ending very satisfying.
