In Merciful Carnage, the start of a new dark fantasy duology from USA Today–bestselling author Sara Hashem, a deathless girl draws the scrutiny of an immortal ruler—one determined to uncover the truth of her existence...and her hold on his attention.
Tala’s life has been defined by her inability to die. When a mysterious water-borne plague starts to ravage the oasis villages, her superstitious village sends Tala across the desert to the city of Axsanda to seek refuge. Determined to find a cure to the plague, Tala will stop at nothing to prove herself a worthy member of her community.
Selim, the chillingly beautiful High Judge of Axsanda, is intrigued by the strange, ambitious village girl brought before him; but her deathlessness threatens the sacred balance of his land. He agrees to shelter Tala's village if she remains in his palace until they arrive. As Tala hunts for a cure to the plague, Selim hunts for an answer to her existence.
As terrifying omens spread across Axsanda and Tala shows signs of an impossible power, the two must reckon with their attraction . . . and its catastrophic consequences.
