“An enchanting and wildly clever debut, Mara's The Darkening delivers on every promise. From its storm-tossed world, to its lyrical prose, to its propulsive, electrifying plot, readers will find themselves utterly ensnared by this book--it is a true masterclass in young adult fantasy.” — Ayana Gray, New York Times-bestselling author of Beasts of Prey
“A thrilling, fast-paced adventure by an exciting new voice. Mara has crafted a brutal, richly-woven world balanced by the most lush and beautiful prose. The Darkening is a wild and thrilling ride, with twists and turns that will have you on the edge of your seat and an ending that'll have you begging for the sequel.”
— Adalyn Grace, New York Times bestselling author of All the Stars and Teeth
“A world that will ensnare you from the first page. The Darkening is at once a grand epic and an intimate adventure, following a brave band of heroes fighting their innermost curses.” — Chloe Gong, New York Times bestselling author of These Violent Delights
“The Darkening is a thrilling adventure that will draw readers in like the enchanted storm threatening Vesper’s world.” — Emily Thiede, author of This Vicious Grace
“Fresh and viciously clever, Mara’s debut offers a world brimming with fury, characters you’d follow into any storm, and twists that’ll keep you guessing to the very last page––where you’ll promptly demand the sequel.” — Kate Dylan, author of Mindwalker
“Different and exciting.” — School Library Journal
“Excellent world-building and beautiful prose . . . This strongly imaginative debut may appeal to fans of Sabaa Tahir’s An Ember in the Ashes.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
“High-stakes action and a delicate enemies-to-lovers romance propels Mara’s duology-opening debut.” — Publishers Weekly