20 upcoming YA books we can’t wait to read in 2020
By Lacy Baugher
We’re excited to share the cover and preview an excerpt from The Shadows Between Us, a new fantasy from @TriciaLevensell — publishing February 2020 with @FeiwelFriends https://t.co/LjkjDzzffz
— Tor.com (@tordotcom) May 16, 2019
The Shadows Between Us – Tricia Levenseller
The latest novel from author Tricia Levenseller – who penned such faves as Daughter of the Pirate King and Warrior of the Wild is, in her words, her “Slytherin romance”.
The Shadows Between Us follows the story of the dark and ambitious Alessandra, the second daughter of a minor lord who is sick and tired of being overlooked and underestimated. So, in the grand tradition of many a heroine, she decides to take matters into her own hands and forge her own future.
It’s just that her plan involves not only seducing and marrying the handsome king, but killing him and taking over the throne in his place.
As you might already be able to tell, Alessandra is hardly the typical fantasy protagonist. She’s not particularly good-natured or kind-hearted. Rather, she’s selfish and often cruel, but always completely captivating. And you’ll largely be torn about whether you want her to achieve her goals or truly find love with the Shadow King, who’s generally just as…well, let’s just say unconventional as she is.
The official synopsis gives you a better sense of the story’s tone, which is…well, let’s just call it unusual. But in the best possible ways.
"Alessandra is tired of being overlooked, but she has a plan to gain power: 1) Woo the Shadow King. 2) Marry him. 3) Kill him and take his kingdom for herself. No one knows the extent of the freshly crowned Shadow King’s power. Some say he can command the shadows that swirl around him to do his bidding. Others say they speak to him, whispering the thoughts of his enemies. Regardless, Alessandra knows what she deserves, and she’s going to do everything within her power to get it. But Alessandra’s not the only one trying to kill the king. As attempts on his life are made, she finds herself trying to keep him alive long enough for him to make her his queen—all while struggling not to lose her heart. After all, who better for a Shadow King than a cunning, villainous queen?"
The Shadows Between Us is available on February 25.