Spice Road - by Maiya Ibrahim (Paperback)

About the Book

When she learns that her brother is spreading the nation's secret spice magic to outsiders, sixteen-year-old Shield warrior Imani sets out on a dangerous mission to find him, discovering secrets that lie beyond the Forbidden Wastes--and in her own heart.

Book Synopsis

★ THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER ★ Raised to protect her nation from the monsters lurking in the sands, sixteen-year-old Imani must fight to find her brother, whose betrayal is now the country's greatest threat. Get swept away by this romantic fantasy!

In the hidden desert city of Qalia, there is secret spice magic that awakens the affinities of those who drink the misra tea. Sixteen-year-old Imani has the affinity for iron and is able to wield a dagger like no other warrior. She has garnered the reputation as being the next great Shield for battling djinn, ghouls, and other monsters spreading across the sands.

Her reputation has been overshadowed, however, by her brother, who tarnished the family name after it was revealed that he was stealing his nation's coveted spice--a telltale sign of magical obsession. Soon after that, he disappeared, believed to have died beyond the Forbidden Wastes. Despite her brother's betrayal, there isn't a day that goes by when Imani doesn't grieve him.

But when Imani discovers signs that her brother may be alive and spreading the nation's magic to outsiders, she makes a deal with the Council that she will find him and bring him back to Qalia, where he will face punishment. Accompanied by other Shields, including Taha, a powerful beastseer who can control the minds of falcons, she sets out on her mission.

Imani will soon find that many secrets lie beyond the Forbidden Wastes--and in her own heart--but will she find her brother?

"An epic, sand-swept adventure." ― Ayana Gray, New York Times bestselling author of Beasts of Prey

Review Quotes

★ "A beautifully written, surprise-filled page-turner." ―Kirkus Review, Starred Review

★ "Overflowing with culturally specific details and set in a fictional, Arabian-inspired world, this high-octane adventure maintains a steady clip toward a scintillating conclusion."―Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

★ "Spellbinding magic, lush description and whirlwind action define Maiya Ibrahim's YA debut....readers will find much to admire in this powerful young woman who learns that thinking for herself is as vital as the magic she wields." ―Shelf Awareness, starred review

"An epic, sandswept adventure." - Ayana Gray, New York Times bestselling author of Beasts of Prey

"With an enchanting world of tea magic and desert monsters and a thrilling quest helmed by a girl whose wit is sharper than her blades, Maiya Ibrahim's Spice Road is a fantasy you don't want to miss." - Amélie Wen Zhao, New York Times bestselling author of Song of Silver, Flame like Night

"Secrets, scorching betrayals, and a spellbinding magic system." - Dana Swift, author of Cast in Firelight

"A rich, fresh-voiced fantasy, Ibrahim weaves a masterful tale of family and adventure. Readers will devour the pages like a perfectly spiced tea and be left burning for more." - Claire M. Andrews, author of the Daughter of Sparta trilogy

"With vivid world-building and epic action scenes, SPICE ROAD is a gripping fantasy adventure that YA readers are going to love!" ― Lynette Noni, author of THE PRISON HEALER series

"Come, let the mysterious Spice Road sweep you away. Spirited characters, compelling societies, critical subject matter, and a riveting plot all scheme to ensure a soul-stirring journey." ― London Shah, award-winning author of the LIGHT THE ABYSS series

"With luscious imagery, Spice Road easily draws readers into the desert world and doesn't let go until the very last page...undeniably good writing.―Booklist

About the Author

Maiya Ibrahim is the debut author of Spice Road, an instant Sunday Times bestseller. She graduated with a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Technology Sydney. When she isn't writing, reading, or spending time with her family, Maiya enjoys video games, gardening, and expanding her collection of rare trading cards. She lives in Sydney, Australia.