Maiden

THIS PRINCESS IS GOING TO SAVE HERSELF

Discover a world of forbidden magic, court politics and sacrifice in this enchanting new myth retelling from the Sunday Times bestselling author, perfect for fans of Katherine Arden and Naomi Novik.

The Kingdom of Calestra was built on blood. Every spring, when the snow melts in the mountains, one young woman is chosen by lot to be sacrificed to the Great Dragon.

As the Maiden Sacrifice draws near once more, three women stand at the heart of its brutal ritual: Cressyda, desperate and trapped, Alinore, torn between duty and rebellion and Maylie, whose secrets burn hotter than dragonfire. Together, they carry the power to shatter a treaty written in blood and ash.

Yet freedom comes at a cost, and first they must face the ancient fury of the Great Dragon.

The sacrifice is coming.
But this time, the maidens refuse to burn.

Prepare for…

• ancient dragons
• lady knights
• cunning princesses
• castle libraries
• fierce fairy folk
• forbidden magic
• and much more!

Readers are enchanted by Maiden!

'Filled with myth, forbidden magic, political intrigue . . . It’s a perfect blend' ? ? ? ? ?

'A captivating fantasy novel about three women whose fates are deeply intertwined – and about courage, identity, and breaking free from the rules imposed by others. Highly recommended' ? ? ? ? ?

'A joyful epic that delves into themes of female identity and independence. A great read for fans of modern fairy tales and strong female characters' ? ? ? ? ?

'A powerful, lyrical and moving fairytale retelling that I loved' ? ? ? ? ?

'If you like dragons, princesses, knights and magic this is a high recommendation for you!' ? ? ? ? ?

'Maiden is a fiercely feminist tale of family, friendship and female rage. Leighton has expertly crafted a story of glittering proportions that sizzles off the page. Utterly breathtaking'
Hazel McBride, Sunday Times bestselling author of A FATE FORGED IN FIRE

'Leighton is an expert at taking well-known tales and making them her own. Epic and vivid, the world of Maiden captivates from the very first page and thrusts you into an unforgettable journey alongside characters you can’t help but root for'
Samantha Sotto Yambao, Sunday Times bestselling author of WATER MOON

‘Maiden interweaves the stories of three very different women. Rich in folkloric elements and full of surprises, this is a powerful tale of women finding their true selves. Highly recommended!’
Juliet Marillier, internationally bestselling author of DAUGHTER OF THE FOREST

‘Leighton has created a beautiful, enchanting world with twists and turns as enchanting as her characters’
Isabelle Schuler, author of LADY MACBETHAD