Hand, the Eye and the Heart

Zhilan is a rising star in fantasy fiction, created by Zoë Marriott. She is determined to save her father from the battlefield and win the love of a nation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 04 April 2019
Publisher: Walker Books Ltd

A Rising Star of Fantasy Fiction:
Zoë Marriott has crafted a truly remarkable work of fantasy fiction. Lauren James, the author of The Loneliest Girl in the Universe, praises Marriott's creation, stating, "Zoë Marriott has created something truly special." The novel is characterized by its rich imagination and its sharp relevance to contemporary issues. Readers are captivated by the characters and find themselves deeply invested in their journey.

Lauren James' Praise:
Lauren James, the author of The Loneliest Girl in the Universe, highlights the special quality of Marriott's work. She describes it as "richly imagined yet sharply topical." The novel seamlessly blends fantasy elements with real-world concerns, creating a world that is both captivating and thought-provoking. James further remarks that readers will fall in love with the protagonist, Zhilan, and praises their ability to create a character that is both relatable and compelling.

L. A. Weatherly's Endorsement:
L. A. Weatherly, the author of the Angel trilogy, also praises Marriott's novel. Weatherly describes Zhilan as "a character who was assigned female at birth, yet defies expectations and pursues their dreams." Weatherly praises Marriott's ability to create a complex and relatable protagonist, stating that readers will be drawn to Zhilan's journey and their determination to save their father from the battlefield.

Zhilan's Identity and Challenges:
Zhilan, the protagonist of the novel, was assigned female at birth but knows that their true identity lies elsewhere. Despite their gift for illusions, they are destined to live out their life within the confines of the women's quarter. However, when civil war sets the empire aflame, Zhilan is determined to save their disabled father from the battlefield. By taking his place, they embark on a perilous journey that challenges their physical and emotional strength.

Surviving Army Training as a Boy:
Zhilan's journey takes them through brutal army training as a boy, a task that is daunting and challenging for someone assigned female at birth. They endure physical and mental trials, pushing themselves to their limits and learning to fight alongside men. This training is only the first step in their quest to save their father and protect their nation.

Glittering Court of the Land of Dragons:
Once Zhilan completes their training, they enter the glittering court of the Land of Dragons. In this world, love and betrayal are two sides of the same smile, and the fate of a nation rests on Zhilan's shoulders. They must navigate through complex political alliances, courtly intrigues, and dangerous rivalries. Zhilan must use their skills and intelligence to make difficult decisions and protect their interests, while also discovering the true meaning of love and loyalty.

The Fate of a Nation:
The novel's central conflict revolves around Zhilan's decision to win the civil war and save their father. They must confront powerful enemies, navigate treacherous terrain, and make sacrifices that test their moral and physical strength. The fate of a nation hangs in the balance, and Zhilan must choose where their heart truly belongs.

Conclusion:
Zoë Marriott's The Rising Star of Fantasy Fiction is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of identity, gender, and the pursuit of one's dreams. With its rich imagination, sharp relevance, and compelling characters, the novel has earned praise from acclaimed authors such as Lauren James and L. A. Weatherly. Zhilan's journey is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the ability to overcome societal expectations. As readers immerse themselves in this captivating world, they are sure to be inspired by Zhilan's triumphs and challenged by their struggles.

Weight: 304g
Dimension: 130 x 198 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781406383546