Almost 200 years ago, the Omehi fled the Cull for a new peninsula, where they battled those already living there, the Xiddeen, with their Guardians—dragons—to take control. Now, the war continues. The Omehi are strictly divided by class, with Commons, Nobles, plus the treasured and powerful Gifted. One Common boy, Tau Tafari, loses his father when he is killed because of Tau's victory against a Noble in a fight. Tau vows revenge on those who caused his father's death and begins training as a Common soldier, an Ihashe. To become better than his skilled opponents, Tau uses every piece of knowledge, determination, and hatred to forge a path to the feet of his father's killers, even as he faces changes to his world, his culture, and the unending war that has shaped the Omehi and their power. Tau is a near-unsympathetic protagonist, as his single-minded vendetta affects those around him, but readers will be mesmerized by the worldbuilding, class barriers, and magic that shape the story into a powerful tale. VERDICT Winter's debut will draw strong comparisons to George R.R. Martin and Brandon Sanderson, and the strong African influences and ties create a singular, exciting epic with intriguing characters and culture. Readers will be clamoring for the next installment.—Kristi Chadwick, Massachusetts Lib. Syst., Northampton

Winters's stunning debut fantasy epic is rich in complex characters and a well-wrought world with both European and African influences. Tau Tafari is a common boy of the Omehi people, whose society is strictly divided by class. When his father is murdered needlessly to assuage the ego of an offended noble, Tau vows to take advantage of the only opportunity his class is given and become an Ihashe in the Omehian military. Tau's determination wins him a spot as an initiate, though most of the other initiates have far greater skill. Desperate to improve himself, Tau breaches the underworld, Isihogo, with the help of his lover, Zuri, a young woman training to become an Enervator (those with the ability to siphon power from the underworld during battle). While his physical body remains untouched, Tau's soul is free to spar with the demons that stalk Isihogo, and this twisted training changes him far more than he expects. Winter's secondary characters support his hero's story and amplify its themes of brotherhood, but it is Tau himself, far more nuanced than a simple underdog, who will move readers to eagerly seek the next volume. This impressive series launch holds tremendous promise. Agent: Erin Malone, William Morris Endeavor. (July)