Deathly Fates - by Tesia Tsai (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

A sweeping debut inspired by the Chinese folk practice of necromancy, Deathly Fates is perfect for fans of Descendant of the Crane, The Bone Shard Daughter, and A Magic Steeped in Poison.

As a corpse-driving priestess, a holy servant paid to guide the deceased home, Kang Siying has never feared death. But when her beloved father collapses due to his declining health, Siying realizes that even she is not free from the cruel grasp of mortality. Desperate to provide her father with the medical aid he needs, Siying accepts a dangerous job that promises a generous commission, and travels to a hostile state to retrieve the corpse of a missing prince.

But the moment Siying places her reanimation talisman on the dead prince's head, rather than make the corpse obedient to Siying's commands, the talisman brings the prince back to life. Worse, he won't stay alive for long--not unless he absorbs enough qi, or life force, to keep his soul anchored to his body.

In return for a reward worth twice her original commission, Siying agrees to aid the frustratingly handsome prince in finding and purifying evil spirits for their qi. But as they journey across the countryside, encountering vengeful ghosts and enemy spies alike, they gradually uncover dark secrets about the prince's death--secrets that could endanger both Siying's father and their entire kingdom.

Review Quotes

"Rich and wholeheartedly poignant. Deathly Fates sings with profound spirit, exploring the consequences of war and the scars cut by nobility during trying times. An entrancing world that will certainly linger." --Chloe Gong, #1 New York Times bestselling author of These Violent Delights

"Set in a fascinating world populated with unforgettable characters, Deathly Fates is a beautiful tale of love and loss, and of hope that shines brightly in the darkness."-- June Hur, New York Times bestselling author of A Crane Among Wolves

"Deathly Fates had me staying up too late, frantic to see what was going to happen next. A breathlessly fun, richly characterized joy of a debut with the most unexpected pair I've ever met." --Cassandra Khaw, USA Today bestselling author of The Library at Hellebore

"Beauty and sorrow intertwine in Deathly Fates, whose gorgeous, atmospheric prose will transport you right to the forests and towns of a Chinese-inspired fantasy world where ganshi necromancy is practiced. Eldest daughter Siying's tenacious love for her family will resonate with anyone who has carried more responsibility on their shoulders for their loved ones than they should have to. A poetic gem of a book that will linger in your soul long after the final page." --Xiran Jay Zhao, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Iron Widow

About the Author

Tesia Tsai was born in Los Angeles to immigrant parents from Taiwan. She currently teaches first-year composition as an adjunct professor at Brigham Young University, and lives with her husband, two cats, and a dog in Provo, Utah. When not writing or reading, she enjoys watching Asian dramas, playing video games, and planning her next trip.