These Feathered Flames (These Feathered Flames)

“These Feathered Flames is a stunning debut as dark, lush, and captivating as the best fairy tales.”—Nina Varela, author of the Crier's War duology

When twin heirs are born in Tourin, their fates are decided at a young age. While Izaveta remained at court to learn the skills she’d need as the future queen, Asya was taken away to train with her aunt, the mysterious Firebird, who ensured magic remained balanced in the realm.

But before Asya’s training is completed, the ancient power blooms inside her, which can mean only one thing: the queen is dead, and a new ruler must be crowned.

As the princesses come to understand everything their roles entail, they’ll discover who they can trust, who they can love—and who killed their mother.

Books in the These Feathered Flames duology:
These Feathered Flames
This Cursed Crown

Reviews

"These Feathered Flames is a stunning debut as dark, lush, and captivating as the best fairy tales. Overy’s writing is both lyrical and grounded, and I was just as taken by the court politics as I was by the complex, layered relationship between sisters Asya and Izaveta—one gentle and one ruthless, both destined to protect their kingdom. With themes of destiny, sisterhood, and sacrifice, plus a blossoming queer romance that left me yearning for Book Two, this retelling of a classic Russian fairy tale was a thrill from start to finish."—Nina Varela, author of the Crier’s War duology

“As brilliant as a firebird, These Feathered Flames has all the elements I love in young adult fantasy: lyrical prose, a unique spin on folklore, and the complicated relationship between sisters. From the first page to the last, Overy’s debut will have readers burning to know what happens next.”—Mara Rutherford, author of the Crown of Coral and Pearl duology

"These Feathered Flames is a beautiful story of sisterhood, court intrigue, and ancient magic that simultaneously draws on established folklore and breathes new life into it. With luscious worldbuilding and two skillfully crafted heroines that will ensnare your heart, this book is a fantastic start to a new series!"—Kalyn Josephson, author of The Storm Crow duology

“An engrossing fantasy tale about sisterhood and what it means to be able to fully trust another person.”—School Library Journal

"This compelling series opener is narrated by both sisters as they struggle to overcome fear and distrust to be true allies. Though the sisters’ relationship is paramount, their relationships with others, including Asya’s burgeoning romance with a female guard, prove crucial. This will appeal to those who enjoy character-driven stories of magic and courtly intrigue."—Booklist

"Asya’s exhilarating, tightly plotted fights and Izaveta’s clever political machinations play out against Slavic-inspired historical and cultural elements to create a thoroughly compelling tale of strength and sisterhood."—Kirkus Reviews