Lord of the White Hell

Seventeen-year-old engineering genius Kiram Kir-Zaki is the first full-blooded Haldiim to attend the Cadeleonian Academy Sagrada, and he knows they only admitted him in hopes of winning the Crown Challenge scientific competition. The uptight Cadeleonians stick him with the only roommate he can't corrupt with his heathen ways: Javier Tornesal, cursed by the evil powers of the white hell. The two are instantly attracted, but they must resist and hide their romance as Javier protects Kiram and helps him train for the competition. Then Kiram's uncle Rafie and his husband, the mystic Alizadeh, reveal secrets that could tear the boys—and the country—apart. An intricate world, well-integrated social issues, believable sexual encounters, and an interesting mystery make this dense, languorous tale appealing for any fan of romantic fantasy. (Aug.)