Seraphina

Locus Award nominee 2013.

In her New York Times bestselling debut, Rachel Hartman introduces mathematical dragons and an utterly original alternative-medieval world to readers of all ages.

Four decades of peace have done little to ease the mistrust between humans and dragons in the kingdom of Goredd. Folding themselves into human shape, dragons attend court as ambassadors and universities as scholars. As the treaty's anniversary draws near, however, tensions are high.

Seraphina Dombegh has reason to fear both sides. A gifted musician, she joins the court just as a member of the royal family is murdered - in suspiciously draconian fashion. Seraphina is drawn into the investigation, partnering with the captain of the Queen's Guard, the dangerously perceptive Prince Lucian Kiggs. While they begin to uncover hints of a sinister plot to destroy the peace, Seraphina struggles to protect the secret behind her musical gift, one so terrible that its discovery could mean her very life.

“A book worth hoarding, as glittering and silver-bright as dragon scales, with a heroine who insists on carving herself a place in your mind.” - Naomi Novik

“Seraphina is strong, complex, talented - she makes mistakes and struggles to trust, with good reason, and she fights to survive in a world that would tear her apart. I love this book!” - Tamora Pierce

“Just when you thought there was nothing new to say about dragons, it turns out there is, and plenty! Rachel Hartman’s rich invention never fails to impress - and to convince. It’s smart and funny and original, and has characters I will follow to the ends of the earth.” - Ellen Kushner