One must fall for the other to rise.

''Glows from start to finish . . . a marvel'' CHLOE GONG

''Elizabeth Lim''s worlds and words are always magical'' XIRAN JAY ZHAO

Sisterhood bonds and courage are tested in the new tale from the New York Times bestselling author of Six Crimson Cranes and The Dragon''s Promise.

Channi was not born a monster. But when her own father offers her in sacrifice to the Demon Witch, she is forever changed. Cursed with a serpent''s face, Channi is the exact opposite of her beautiful sister, Vanna-the only person in the village who looks at Channi and doesn''t see a monster. The only person she loves and trusts.

Now seventeen, Vanna is to be married off in a vulgar contest that will enrich the coffers of the village leaders. Only Channi, who''s had to rely on her strength and cunning all these years, can defend her sister against the cruelest of the suitors. But in doing so, she becomes the target of his wrath - launching a grisly battle royale, a quest over land and sea, a romance between sworn enemies, and a choice that will strain Channi''s heart to its breaking point.

Elizabeth Lim is at the absolute top of her game in this thrilling yet heart-wrenching tale of courage, loyalty and the deep bonds of sisterhood.

PRAISE FOR ELIZABETH LIM

''Every page of Elizabeth Lim''s masterful writing shimmers with beauty and emotion'' ALEXANDRA BRACKEN

''Dazzling'' STEPHANIE GARBER

''Magic leaps from every page'' AXIE OH

''Amazing'' TAMORA PIERCE

''A gem'' NATASHA NGAN

''Lim is a master storyteller'' KERRI MANISCALCO