“The heartache they feel is unique to their situation, and without revealing too much, largely steeped in the concept of overcoming past trauma and learning how to be comfortable with your whole self.”

Q/A with Maxym M. Martineau, author of Shadows of the Lost, on creating a world of magical beasts, writing a fantasy romance filled with angst and heartache, and telling a story of queer characters.

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“The shape of the trauma may be different, but the taste of tears on their tongue is the same”

In August 2021, a feminist fantasy unapologetically took readers on a journey of sisterhood, anger, and resilience. The Wild Ones is a heart-heavy, lyrical, and magical tale that doesn’t shy away from acknowledging and tackling societal flaws, institutionalised wrongs, and trauma. With characters who navigate the myriad meanings of empowerment and vulnerability, the author —whose…

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“An Urdu phrase I loved including was ‘aaj jaane ki zidd na karo,’ which…loosely translates to: today, don’t insist on leaving”

A spoiled princess who fiercely loves her family and people is challenged by circumstances to become more while also being romantically intrigued by someone who’s forbidden—an intriguing ambassador. Pitched as a Pakistani-inspired retelling of The Lady or the Tiger, this fantasy brings forward a stunning culture, fascinating court politics, and an angst-filled love story. Published…

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Cover Reveal: The Man or the Monster by Aamna Qureshi

Today this blog is so excited to reveal the cover of The Man or the Monster by Aamna Qureshi — sequel to The Lady or the Lion, a YA fantasy set in a Pakistan-inspired world full of forbidden love and court intrigue. The title, second in the The Marghazar Trials, will be released on July…

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