A sweeping romantic epic set in the wild and dangerous world of prehistoric Europe!

Spain, 8,000 years ago. As Headwoman's daughter, eighteen-year-old Nahia was born to lead. But when she speaks aloud a forbidden truth--that her people are facing a growing threat of invasion--her expectations are shattered when she's punished with exile and apprenticed to the enigmatic shaman Eneko instead.

With her sister Izara made the new heir and her world upended, Nahia is sent away with a young man she barely knows. Deep in the wilds, however, she uncovers a shocking talent for divining messages from the spirits and channelling their turbulent powers. But these visions come to show her that her people are in terrible danger. . . and they need her. Nahia will have to use every advantage she has to save her beloved people--and her sister.

In this powerful upper YA with crossover appeal, archaeologist Emily Jones transports us to a rugged world of pine forests, frothy beaches, and wild magic, and masterfully depicts passionate first love, conquest, green sorcery, the unbreakable bond between sisters, and untamed, unashamed female power. Utterly unique and shockingly good, this is a knockout debut, perfect for fans of Jean M. Auel, Adrienne Young, Chloe Gong, Claire M. Andrews, and Rachel Griffin.

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection!

"BREATHTAKINGLY, BRILLIANTLY NEW... I couldn't put this one down!"--Claire M. Andrews, Daughter of Sparta

"ENTHRALLING."--Publishers Weekly

"TREMENDOUS... Masterful storytelling."--Dr. William Taylor, Curator of Archaeology and author of Hoof Beats

Binding Type: Hardcover
Publisher: Holiday House
Published: 04/15/2025
ISBN: 9780823458356
Pages: 320
Weight: 1.25lbs

Review Citations: Publishers Weekly 01/13/2025
Kirkus Reviews 02/01/2025