#1 New York Times bestselling YA author Chloe Gong's adult epic
fantasy debut, inspired by Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra, is a
fiery collision of power plays, spilled blood, and romance amidst a set
of deadly games.
Every year, thousands in the kingdom of Talin will flock to its capital
twin cities, San-Er, where the palace hosts a set of games. For those
confident enough in their ability to jump between bodies, competitors
across San-Er fight to the death to win unimaginable riches.
Princess Calla Tuoleimi lurks in hiding. Five years ago, a massacre
killed her parents and left the palace of Er empty...and she was the one
who did it. Before King Kasa's forces in San can catch her, she plans to
finish the job and bring down the monarchy. Her reclusive uncle always
greets the victor of the games, so if she wins, she gets her opportunity
at last to kill him.
Enter Anton Makusa, an exiled aristocrat. His childhood love has lain in
a coma since they were both ousted from the palace, and he's deep in
debt trying to keep her alive. Thankfully, he's one of the best jumpers
in the kingdom, flitting from body to body at will. His last chance at
saving her is entering the games and winning.
Calla finds both an unexpected alliance with Anton and help from King
Kasa's adopted son, August, who wants to mend Talin's ills. But the
three of them have very different goals, even as Calla and Anton's
partnership spirals into something all-consuming. Before the games
close, Calla must decide what she's playing for--her lover or her
kingdom.
