*SIGNED BOOKPLATE

Raised in isolation by a mysterious, often absent mother known only as The Lady, Tarisai longs for family. She is sent by The Lady to compete against other children to be chosen as one of the Crown Prince’s Council of 11. If picked, she’ll be joined with the other Council members through the Ray, a bond deeper than blood. That closeness is irresistible to Tarisai, who has always wanted to belong. But The Lady has other ideas, including a magical wish that Tarisai is compelled to obey: Kill the Crown Prince. Tarisai won’t stand by and become someone’s pawn – but is she strong enough to choose a different path for herself? The first book in a new series by this debut author. Your teens will be captivated by this powerful story where loyalty and destiny come into conflict in a vibrant world based on West African traditions and myths. Ages 12 and up. 400pp.