Debut author Shen Tao introduces readers to the lush deadly world of The Poet Empress a
sweeping epic and intimate fantasy perfect for fans of The Serpent & the Wings of Night The
Song of Achilles and She Who Became the Sun . In the waning years of the Azalea Dynasty the
emperor is dying the land consumed by famine and poetry magic lost to all except the
powerful. Wei Yin is desperate. After the fifth death of a sibling with her family and
village on the brink of starvation she will do anything to save those she loves. Even offer
herself as concubine to the cruel heir of the beautiful and brutal Azalea House. But in a
twist of fate the palace stands on the knife-edge of civil war with Wei trapped in its
center...at the side of a violent prince. To survive Wei must harden her heart rely on her
wit and become dangerous herself. Even if it means becoming a poet in a world where women are
forbidden to read-and composing the most powerful spell of all. A ballad of death...and love.
The Poet Empress is an epic fantasy that explores darker themes subjects and scenes that may
not be suitable for all readers. Please see the author's content note at the beginning of the
book.
