About This Book
Reach for this book when your teenager is feeling overwhelmed by heavy family responsibilities or the pressure of navigating a world that feels increasingly unstable. It is an ideal choice for the teen who has had to grow up too fast, perhaps due to a parent's illness or external family stressors, and needs to see that resilience is possible even in the darkest circumstances. The story follows Errin, a skilled apothecary living as a refugee while secretly caring for her sick mother. When an ancient, malevolent prince wakes and begins a violent conquest using magical golems, Errin is forced into dangerous alliances to protect those she loves. It is a high-stakes fantasy that blends folklore with a gritty, realistic portrayal of survival. Parents should note that while the worldbuilding is immersive and magical, the emotional core focuses on the heavy burden of caregiving and the moral complexities of rebellion. It is a sophisticated read for older teens who appreciate atmospheric, slightly darker tales about finding their inner strength.
