The Last Refuge - (Stealing Sanctuary) by Christina Bacilieri (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Magic will transform you. Power could destroy you. Actions will define you.

Kiera Vandyer told herself she'd only agreed to this scheme for the money, that nothing else had drawn her to this venture, but you can't lie to the truest parts of yourself. For sixteen years, she's hidden her burning curiosity for magic, knowing that one misstep would mean certain death at the hands of Atterah's merciless leaders: the all-powerful Ruling Board.

Just when Kiera is on the cusp of securing a stable future for herself and her mother, a cruel twist of fate forces her to commit the worst possible infraction. She trespasses over the border into Etabon, the last refuge for magic on Atterah. Once within, her rare form makes her a target for the warden of the site. To escape the warden and conceal her crime from the Ruling Board, Kiera must use her strange new powers to battle for her freedom... or die trying.

The Last Refuge is the enthralling first novel in the Stealing Sanctuary series, weaving together the destinies of two dreamers caught up in a dark curse that spans generations. Enter a world of gripping adventure where love burns slowly, family is chosen, and hope is a dangerous yet beautiful dream.

Review Quotes

"Bacilieri's novel is fast-paced and wildly imaginative, which results in a consistently compelling read...A suspenseful adventure that will engage readers to the final page." - Kirkus Reviews

"Bacilieri honors and sometimes upends genre expectations, and her creatures, spells, and mysteries are crafted with clear love... Pacing is brisk, rewarding readers with twists, thrills, high-stakes deal-making, moonlit elk rides, and a charming touch of Sapphic romance."- BookLife by Publishers Weekly

"...the magical possibilities in Atterah are promising; it's a world of inexhaustible potential. Hallowfeld makes an excellent villain-the perfect foil for likable Kiera, who exemplifies strong moral judgments and an innate desire to save others from harm."- Foreward

"For a debut novel, THE LAST REFUGE bodes well for Christina Bacilieri's future work-not least this promising YA fantasy saga. The novel's prose is assured, with vivid world-building, strong characterization, and a very well-paced plot." - IndieReader

"A rebellious YA fantasy thriller with an apocalyptic edge, this first installment of the Stealing Sanctuary series is a stunning foundation for what's to come. As a starting point for a sprawling fantasy saga, Bacilieri delivers a stirring standout."- Self-Publishing Review