10 must-read SFF book releases to help you escape from reality this May
By Lacy Baugher
Of Silver and Shadow – Jennifer Gruenke
Of Silver and Shadow, a fantasy debut from author Jennifer Gruenke tells the story of the kingdom of Erdis, in which magic has been banned for a century. Eighteen year-old Ren has been living in the streets, ever since her family by the king. Because, you see, Ren is a silver-wielder, a semi-elemental magic that only members of the royal family are supposed to be able to possess.
This ability automatically makes her of interest to the movement of rebels in the kingdom, lead by the handsome and caustic Derek. Ren, a survivor at heart, doesn’t care so much overthrowing the king, but she’s very interested in the large sum of money the rebels offer her for her services, enough to buy freedom from her debts and a fresh start.
Of Silver and Shadow is a book about rebellion, politics, friendships and an enemies-to-lovers romance, complete with tons of plot twists that will keep readers guessing.
The official synopsis has a lot more detail about the story.
"Ren Kolins is a silver wielder—a dangerous thing to be in the kingdom of Erdis, where magic has been outlawed for a century. Ren is just trying to survive, sticking to a life of petty thievery, card games, and pit fighting to get by. But when a wealthy rebel leader discovers her secret, he offers her a fortune to join his revolution. The caveat: she won’t see a single coin until they overthrow the King. Behind the castle walls, a brutal group of warriors known as the King’s Children is engaged in a competition: the first to find the rebel leader will be made King’s Fang, the right hand of the King of Erdis. And Adley Farre is hunting down the rebels one by one, torturing her way to Ren and the rebel leader, and the coveted King’s Fang title. But time is running out for all of them, including the youngest Prince of Erdis, who finds himself pulled into the rebellion. Political tensions have reached a boiling point, and Ren and the rebels must take the throne before war breaks out."
Of Silver and Shadow is available on May 26.
Next. Ruthless Gods is a dark, brutal and deeply thrilling sequel. dark
What are you planning on adding to your TBR pile this May? Let us know in the comments!