The brilliant new fantasy novel from the acclaimed and multi-award winning author of City of
Lies . . . 'Marvellous . . . will leave you reading late into the night.' SFX 'Poisoners
deceit and treachery . . . will surely keep readers entranced.' TERRY BROOKS 'One of the
standout debuts - and books - of the year.' THE FANTASY HIVE 'Absolutely loved this . . . a
wonderful read.' JOHN GWYNNE 'One of the best new fantasies I've seen in a long time.' ADRIAN
TCHAIKOVSKY 'A bold new fantasy voice.' LAURA LAM _____________________________________________
You never get used to poisoning a child . . . Two years after a devastating siege tore the
country apart Silasta has recovered. But to the frustration of poison-taster siblings Jovan
and Kalina sworn to protect the Chancellor the city has grown complacent in its new-found
peace and prosperity. And now amid the celebrations of the largest carnival the continent has
ever seen it seems a mysterious enemy has returned. The death of a former adversary sets Jovan
on the trail of a cunning killer while Kalina negotiates the treacherous politics of visiting
dignitaries knowing that this vengeful mastermind may lurk among the princes and dukes noble
ladies and priests. Bu their investigations uncover another conspiracy which now threatens not
just Silasta and the Chancellor but also their own family. Assassins witches and a dangerous
criminal network are all closing in. And brother and sister must once more fight to save their
city - and everyone they hold dear - from a patient powerful enemy determined to tear it all
down . . .
