Kingdom of Exiles

Martineau’s impressive debut novel, the first of a romantic fantasy trilogy, marries grand-scale wonder with the intimacy of relationships among traveling companions and a layered plot. Leena is a Charmer, one with the ability to mentally commune with and train a wide range of beasts. She’s been exiled from her home for crimes she didn’t commit, and her only path to survival is illegally selling trained beasts. She knows this will draw notice, but she never expected that to come in the form of Kost, a shadow-wielding undead assassin. Her beasts defend her and she demands that Kost take her to his master, the brooding, handsome Noc, so she can convince him to revoke the commission for her death. Noc is cursed and haunted by his past, but blessed with a second chance at building his life. Leena is merely a job—at first. Soon he’s struggling to keep from falling for her. Martineau’s intricate world-building melds traditional high fantasy with a hint of Victorian sensibility, then elevates it with endearing characters and a deliciously complex story that will leave readers anxiously awaiting the second book. Agent: Cate Hart, Corvisiero Literary. (June)