«Crown of Feathers» by Nicki Pau Preto

I AM A DAUGHTER OF DEATH. FROM THE ASHES I ROSE, LIKE A PHOENIX FROM THE PYRE.

I had a sister once.

I promised her the throne would not come between us.

But it is a fact of life that one must kill or be killed. Rule or be ruled.

Sometimes the title of Queen is given. Sometimes it must be taken.

 

In a world ruled by fierce warrior queens, a grand empire was built upon the backs of Phoenix Riders legendary heroes who soared through the sky on wings of fire until a war between two sisters ripped it all apart.

Sixteen years later, Veronyka is a war orphan who dreams of becoming a Phoenix Rider from the stories of old. After a shocking betrayal from her controlling sister, Veronyka strikes out alone to find the Riders even if that means disguising herself as a boy to join their ranks.

Just as Veronyka finally feels like she belongs, her sister turns up and reveals a tangled web of lies between them that will change everything. And, meanwhile, the new empire has learned of the Riders' return and intends to destroy them once and for all.

Crown of Feathers is an epic fantasy about love's incredible power to save or to destroy. Throughout is interspersed the story of Avalkyra Ashfire, the last Rider Queen, who would rather see her empire burn than fall into her sister's hands.

 

PRAISE FOR CROWN OF FEATHERS

“Draws you in with the first flaming feather and doesn't let go.” — Kendare Blake

“A feast of magic, action, and romance.” — Elly Blake

“A fierce and incendiary tale of warrior women, sisterhood, and the choices that define us.” — Lisa Maxwell

“A beautifully told story about justice, sisterhood, and warrior women. This richly woven world had me turning pages well into the night. Nicki Pau Preto is one to watch.” — Shea Ernshaw

“The unique and imaginative world of the Phoenix Riders had my rapt attention from the first sentence. Nicki Pau Preto is a bright new talent, and I can't wait to read more!”— Morgan Rhodes

“An action-packed adventure that will leave fans of epic fantasies eager to find out more. The ending is the perfect setup for a sequel.” — School Library Journal

“This is a new twist on fantasy favorites, and Pau Preto's first novel is as ambitious as it is lyrical.” — Booklist

“Epic in the truest sense . . . it's the perfect series kickoff.” — Quill and Quire

“Debut author Pau Preto's series opener steadily gathers steam before closing with a pulse-pounding crescendo. Veronica, Tristan, and conflicted imperial soldier Sev trade chapters, their stories interweaving to heighten tension, deepen character, and illustrate the importance of empathy, equality, community, and knowing one’s own truth.” — Publisher’s Weekly