Spice Road, Maiya Ibrahim
Spice Road, Maiya Ibrahim
List: $27.50 | Sale: $19.25
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Spice Road

Author: Maiya Ibrahim

Narrator: Krupa Pattani

Unabridged: 14 hr 13 min

Format: Digital Audiobook Download

Published: 01/24/2023


Synopsis

The first book in a sweeping fantasy series full of political intrigue, betrayal, and a complex heroine battling in an Arabian folklore-inspired land.

"An enchanting world of tea magic and desert monsters …a fantasy you don’t want to miss." —Amélie Wen Zhao, New York Times bestselling author of The Scorpion and the Night Blossom

"With vivid world-building and epic action scenes, Spice Road is a gripping fantasy adventure that YA readers are going to love!" —Lynette Noni, bestselling author of Shadow Reaper

In the hidden desert city of Qalia, there is secret spice magic that awakens the affinities of those who drink the misra tea. Sixteen-year-old Imani has the affinity for iron and is able to wield a dagger like no other warrior. She has garnered the reputation as being the next great Shield for battling djinn, ghouls, and other monsters spreading across the sands.

Her reputation has been overshadowed, however, by her brother, who tarnished the family name after it was revealed that he was stealing his nation's coveted spice—a telltale sign of magical obsession. Soon after that, he disappeared, believed to have died beyond the Forbidden Wastes. Despite her brother’s betrayal, there isn’t a day that goes by when Imani doesn’t grieve him.

But when Imani discovers signs that her brother may be alive and spreading the nation's magic to outsiders, she makes a deal with the Council that she will find him and bring him back to Qalia, where he will face punishment. Accompanied by other Shields, including Taha, a powerful beastseer who can control the minds of falcons, she sets out on her mission.

Imani will soon find that many secrets lie beyond the Forbidden Wastes—and in her own heart—but will she find her brother?

"An epic, sand-swept adventure." ―Ayana Gray, New York Times bestselling author of Beasts of Prey

Read the Spice Road series:
SPICE ROAD • SERPENT SEA • SPIRIT LANDS

Reviews

Goodreads review by jessica on December 22, 2022

the plot is the strength of this novel. the way the story itself progresses is ideal. its the right amount of adventure, travel, family matters, enemies, magic, and rebellion. and while i definitely am more of a plot-driven reader, im surprisingly let down by the lack of everything else. i was desper......more

Goodreads review by Jena on December 20, 2023

Absolutely beautiful. Sometimes I worry about the state of publishing and whether I am enjoying reading like I did when I first fell into the hobby, and then I stumble upon books like this one that reassure me. These characters, this world, magic system, and the plot itself are all incredible. Groun......more

Goodreads review by Lexi on February 15, 2023

Overview: šŸ˜ Rivals to lovers šŸ˜ Enemies to lovers šŸ’‹ Lil bit of (hot) monster romance šŸ’‹ Love triangle šŸ’‹ Betrayal & trust ā™„ļø Epic adventure ā™„ļø Family bonds ā™„ļø Myths and legends ā™„ļø Anti-colonial themes Oh okay OKAY why aren't y'all reading this? Spice Road is THE YA book you've been waiting for..probably. If y......more


Quotes

★ “A beautifully written, surprise-filled page-turner.” Kirkus Review, Starred Review

★ "Overflowing with culturally specific details and set in a fictional, Arabian-inspired world, this high-octane adventure maintains a steady clip toward a scintillating conclusion."Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

★ “Spellbinding magic, lush description and whirlwind action
define Maiya Ibrahim's YA debut....readers will find much to admire in this powerful young woman who learns that thinking for herself is as vital as the magic she wields." Shelf Awareness, starred review


"An epic, sandswept adventure." – Ayana Gray, New York Times bestselling author of Beasts of Prey

"With an enchanting world of tea magic and desert monsters and a thrilling quest helmed by a girl whose wit is sharper than her blades, Maiya Ibrahim’s Spice Road is a fantasy you don’t want to miss.” – Amélie Wen Zhao, New York Times bestselling author of Song of Silver, Flame like Night

"Secrets, scorching betrayals, and a spellbinding magic system." – Dana Swift, author of Cast in Firelight

"A rich, fresh-voiced fantasy, Ibrahim weaves a masterful tale of family and adventure. Readers will devour the pages like a perfectly spiced tea and be left burning for more." - Claire M. Andrews, author of the Daughter of Sparta trilogy

“With vivid world-building and epic action scenes, SPICE ROAD is a gripping fantasy adventure that YA readers are going to love!” ― Lynette Noni, author of THE PRISON HEALER series

“Come, let the mysterious Spice Road sweep you away. Spirited characters, compelling societies, critical subject matter, and a riveting plot all scheme to ensure a soul-stirring journey.” ― London Shah, award-winning author of the LIGHT THE ABYSS series


"With luscious imagery, Spice Road easily draws readers into the desert world and doesn’t let go until the very last page...undeniably good writing.Booklist