Critically acclaimed author Nina Varela delivers a stunning sequel to the richly imagined queer epic fantasy Crier’s War, which SLJ called “perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas’s Throne of Glass.”

For too long, Automae have lorded over the kingdom of Rabu, oppressing its human citizens. But the human revolution has risen, and at its heart is Ayla. Once a handmaiden, now a fugitive, Ayla narrowly escaped the palace of Lady Crier, the girl she would’ve killed if she hadn’t fallen in love first.

Now Ayla has pledged her allegiance to Queen Junn, who can help accomplish the human rebellion’s ultimate goal: destroy the Iron Heart. Without its power, the Automae will be weakened to the point of extinction. Ayla wants to succeed, but can’t shake the strong feelings she’s developed for Crier. And unbeknownst to her, Crier has also fled the palace, taking up among traveling rebels, determined to find and protect Ayla.

Even as their paths collide, nothing can prepare them for the dark secret underlying the Iron Heart.

Enemies to Lovers: She was supposed to kill Lady Crier, not fall for her. Now on opposite sides of a revolution, Ayla and Crier will do anything to find their way back to each other.
A High-Stakes Revolution: With the oppressive Automae regime on the brink of collapse, Ayla joins a rebellion to destroy the Iron Heart, the source of their power, once and for all.
Rich World-Building: Return to the intricately crafted world of Automae, heartstone, and political intrigue in this thrilling sequel to the bestselling Crier’s War.
YA LGBTQ+ Fantasy: Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Leigh Bardugo, this sapphic YA fantasy features a breathtaking F/F romance and a fight for a better world.