An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Though in one sense it’s a mix of Harry Potter, the Hunger Games and Game of Thrones, Sabaa Tahir’s powerful debut novel stands on its own. Laia must race to save her brother who is imprisoned by the brutal race of Martials who have enslaved her people. Was her brother working for the Resistance, or someone else? Why does Elias, a Martial who is destined to be the next Emperor, try to help her? Will Elias do what is right in his heart, or what is best for the Empire (killing and destroying)? Tahir’s tale keeps you guessing and on the edge of your seat. Part II is due to come out in April 2016.