INSTANT #1 UK BESTSELLER - The epic young adult romantasy that caused an international sensation--a star-crossed, enemies-to-lovers saga about a war between demons and exorcists . . . and the forbidden love that could change the course of history.

"Sinister magic, crackling banter, and sizzling tension."--Emily Thiede, author of This Vicious Grace

It is said that love conquers all. But will it tear them apart?

Humanity has waged a bloody war against demons for more than a century, with two elite soldiers now leading the fight: Selene Alleva, a powerful exorcist trained at the prestigious Vatican Academy, and orphan Jules Lacroix, unrivaled on the battlefield.

When their paths cross, the distrust--and unwelcome attraction--is immediately apparent. But to get to the bottom of a series of unprecedented demon attacks, Selene and Jules strike an uneasy alliance, agreeing to an unusual arrangement: a fake engagement. With Jules posing as Selene's estranged fianc?, they head to the holy Vatican City in search of answers--only to discover a terrible secret.

Soon Jules is forced to question everything he's ever known--including himself. And Selene, unable to ignore her growing feelings for Jules, must make an impossible choice between love and duty.

Book One of the Cruel Is the Light Duology

Binding Type: Hardcover
Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers
Published: 05/20/2025
ISBN: 9780593810729
Pages: 496
Weight: 1.25lbs