The Judas Blossom

Aryan (the Quest for Heroes series) puts far more political intrigue than magic in this dry historical fantasy that opens the Nightingale and the Falcon series, which reimagines the Mongolian empire’s invasion of Persia. Hulagu Khan, grandson of Ghengis, hopes to fulfill his grandfather’s vision of ruling the world via brute force. This leaves many of his conquered enemies biding their time to destroy him, among them his newest concubine, Kokochin, the Blue Princess. The only survivor of her clan, Kokochin finds purpose in learning to defend herself and joining an underground resistance group. Meanwhile, defeated Persian general Kaivon pretends to switch sides to serve under Hulagu, hoping to gain insider knowledge and manipulate the empire to its ruin from within. There’s real suspense to the imperial machinations, but the fantastical element only comes through the story of Temujin, Hulagu’s weak youngest son, who eventually discovers that he’s descended from an ancient race with powers that could remake the world. It’s a bit too little, too late. Aryan lays an extensive foundation for exciting things to come at the expense of the present volume. This series has yet to find its footing. Agent: Juliet Mushens, Mushens Entertainment. (July)