The scorpion queen

When 16-year-old Amie's sister accuses her of an affair that she herself committed, Amie is disowned by her family, forbidden from marrying her lover Kader, and forced to work as a handmaid for Princess Mariama of the Mali empire. The princess is plagued by guilt and endures night terrors about trials implemented by her father, Emperor Sulyeman, who requires her potential suitors to complete an impossible task. If they fail, they are publicly boiled alive, with the promise that anyone who survives may marry her. As Amie adjusts to life at the castle, she plans to run away with Kader after a year. But the closer she gets to Mariama and the more she uncovers about the Scorpion Order, a secret sinister organization of sorcerers plotting to oust imperial rule, the less likely escape--and survival--become. A slow start soon yields pulse-pounding twists that breathe life into Fears's compelling debut. Political intrigue, terrifying gods, mesmerizing magic, and a complex love triangle coalesce in a dark and brutal historical fantasy helmed by a disgraced heroine determined to forge her own path. Ages 12--up. Agent: Jenny Bent, Bent Agency. (Jan.)

In imperial Mali in 1359, Aminata, a rich merchant's daughter originally betrothed to a noble she loves, loses everything after a false accusation leads to her disownment and the cancellation of her engagement. Now she must work as a servant to Princess Mariama, daughter of Emperor Suleyman, a ruthless man who forces the princess's suitors to undergo impossible Trials that result in their being boiled to death. The only thing keeping Amie afloat is a plan to elope with her beloved, Kader. However, she finds herself increasingly drawn to Mariama, a charismatic young woman who intends to end the Trials for good. When Amie embarks on a quest to steal a hammer from an exiled god -- both the key to ending the Trials and an opportunity to run away with Kader -- she is torn between her promise to her first love and her loyalty to the princess. Romance, court intrigue, and a classic fantasy adventure combine as Fears draws readers in with lush world-building and a flawed but sympathetic protagonist whose passion and resilience sustain her. This solid foundation becomes the springboard for a fast-paced quest arc full of perilous and thrilling encounters, testing Amie's courage and conviction at every turn. The ending feels a bit abrupt, but it sets the stage and builds anticipation for a potential sequel. Shenwei ChangMarch/April 2025 p.68 (c) Copyright The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.