Irinya has wanted to be a flower hunter ever since her mother disappeared into the mysterious mist of the Rann salt flats one night. Now 17, Irinya uses her knowledge of magical flowers to help her caravan survive in the harsh desert. When her handsome hunting partner and childhood friend finds a priceless silver spider lily — said to be able to tear down kingdoms and defeat entire armies — Irinya knows this is their chance for a better life.

Until Irinya is tricked by an attractive impostor.

Irinya's fight to recover the priceless flower and fix what she's done takes her on a dangerous journey, one she's not sure she'll survive. She has no choice but to endure it if she hopes to return home and mend the broken heart of the boy she's left behind. (From St. Martin's Press)

Rati Mehrotra was born in India and now lives and writes in Toronto. She is the author of the YA fantasy novel Night of the Raven, Dawn of the Dove which was a finalist for best YA novel at the 2023 Aurora Awards. Mehrotra has also written the science fantasy novels Markswoman and Mahimata.