Livia Blackburne

A healer who cannot be healed . . . When Zivah falls prey to the deadly rose plague, she knows it's only a matter of time before she fully succumbs. Now she's destined to live her last days in isolation, cut off from her people and unable to practice her art-until a threat to her village creates a need that only she can fill. A soldier shattered by war . . . Broken by torture at the hands of the Amparan Empire, Dineas thirsts for revenge against his captors. Now escaped and reunited with his tribe, he'll do anything to free them from Amparan rule-even if it means undertaking a plan that risks not only his life but his very self. Thrust together on a high-stakes mission to spy on the capital, the two couldn't be more different: Zivah, deeply committed to her vow of healing, and Dineas, yearning for vengeance. But as they grow closer, they must find common ground to protect those they love. And amidst the constant fear of discovery, the two grapple with a mutual attraction that could break both of their carefully guarded hearts. This smart, sweeping fantasy with a political edge and a slow-burning romance will capture fans of The Lumatere Chronicles and An Ember in the Ashes.

Rosemarked

Growing up on Forge's streets has taught Kyra how to stretch a coin. And when that's not enough, her uncanny ability to scale walls and bypass guards helps her take what she needs. But when the leader of the Assassins Guild offers Kyra a lucrative job, she hesitates. She knows how to get by on her own, and she's not sure she wants to play by his rules. But he is persistent-and darkly attractive-and Kyra can't quite resist his pull. Tristam of Brancel is a young Palace knight on a mission. After his best friend is brutally murdered by the Demon Riders, a clan of vicious warriors who ride bloodthirsty wildcats, Tristam vows to take them down. But as his investigation deepens, he finds his efforts thwarted by a talented thief, one who sneaks past Palace defenses with uncanny ease. When a fateful raid throws Kyra and Tristam together, the two enemies realize that their best chance at survival-and vengeance-might be to join forces. And as their loyalties are tested to the breaking point, they learn a startling secret about Kyra's past that threatens to reshape both their lives. In her arresting debut novel, Livia Blackburne creates a captivating world where intrigue prowls around every corner-and danger is a way of life. Praise for Midnight Thief "Blackburne's fast-paced fantasy will please fans of Leigh Bardugo and Tamora Pierce." -School Library Journal

Midnight Thief

"Mulan goes from a celebrated war hero to a reluctant Empress and must once again rise above expectations and prove she doesn't have to be anyone but herself to save China"--

The Queen's Council #2 Feather and Flame

The mission was a failure. Even though Zivah and Dineas discovered a secret that could bring down the empire, their information is useless without proof. Now, with their cover blown and their quest abandoned, their only remaining hope is to get home before Ampara brings the full might of its armies against their peoples. As Shidadi and Dara alike prepare for war, Zivah and Dineas grapple with the toll of their time in the capital. After fighting alongside the Amparans against his own kin, can Dineas convince the Shidadi-and himself-where his loyalties lie? After betraying her healer's vows in Sehmar City, can Zivah find a way to redeem herself-especially when the Dara ask her to do the unthinkable? And after reluctantly falling in love, what will the two do with their lingering feelings, now that the Dineas from Sehmar City is gone forever? Time is running out for all of them, but especially Zivah whose plague symptoms surface once again. Now, she must decide how she'll define the life she has left. Together, healer and warrior must find the courage to save their people, expose the truth, and face the devastating consequences headed their way.

Umbertouched

After learning the truth about her bloodlines, Kyra can't help but feel like a monster. Though she's formed a tentative alliance with the Palace, Kyra must keep her identity a secret or risk being hunted like the rest of her Demon Rider kin. Tristam and the imprisoned assassin James are among the few who know about her heritage, but when Tristam reveals a heartbreaking secret of his own, Kyra's not sure she can trust him. And with James's fate in the hands of the palace, Kyra fears that he will give her away to save himself. As tensions rise within Forge's Council, and vicious Demon Rider attacks continue in surrounding villages, Kyra knows she must do something to save her city. But she walks a dangerous line between opposing armies: will she be able to use her link to the Demon Riders for good, or will her Makvani blood prove to be deadly? In this spellbinding sequel to Midnight Thief, Kyra and Tristam face their biggest battle yet as they grapple with changing allegiances, shocking deceit, and vengeful opponents. Praise for Midnight Thief Indies Introduce New Voices selection for Summer/Fall 2014 "Blackburne's fast-paced fantasy will please fans of Leigh Bardugo and Tamora Pierce." -School Library Journal "[A] dark, morally complex adventure." -Kirkus Reviews "Put this in the hands of fans of Suzanne Collins and Veronica Roth." -VOYA "Blackburne's high fantasy is expansive, with entertaining characters and a well-constructed world." -Booklist

Daughter of Dusk

You've Got Mail gets a fresh YA twist in this irresistible rom-com that spotlights the power of activism and community organizing in the face of gentrification, perfect for fans of Tweet Cute and Yes No Maybe So. Clementine Chan believes in the power of the written word. Under the pseudonym Hibiscus, she runs a popular blog reviewing tea shops and discussing larger issues within her Chinatown community. She has a loyal, kind following, save for this one sour grape named BobaBoy888. Danny Mok is allergic to change, and the gentrification seeping into Chinatown breaks his heart. He channels his frustration into his internet alter ego, BobaBoy888, bickering with local blogger Hibiscus over all things Chinatown and tea. When a major corporation reveals plans that threaten to shut down the Mok's beloved tea shop, Clementine and Danny find themselves working together in real life to save this community they both love. But as they fall hard for this cause--and each other--they have no clue that their online personas have been fighting for years. When the truth comes to light, can Danny and Clementine still find their happily-ever-after?

Clementine and Danny Save the World (and Each Other)

James is skilled, efficient, and deadly, a hired blade navigating the shifting alliances of a deteriorating Assassin's Guild. Then he meets Thalia, an alluring but troubled dancing girl who offers him a way out-if he'll help her kill a powerful nobleman. With the Guild falling apart, it just might be worth the risk. But when you live, breathe, and love in a world that's forever flirting with death, the slightest misstep can be poison. Poison Dance is approximately 14,000 words long, or 54 printed pages. The paperback version of Poison Dance also includes two deleted scenes and two behind-the-scenes articles from the author on writing James's character. Excerpt: He handed her a stiletto the length of her hand and molded her fingers around the handle. Her hands were slender and her nails were delicately rounded, though her palms were calloused. The two of them stood in the cramped space between his bed and the window, holding the blade between them. "You can wear this dagger under your sleeves. Then, when you get your chance..." James guided the knife toward his own throat. "Go for the neck-the blood vessels and the windpipe. You'll have to be close for that. Quick." He lowered the stiletto until its tip grazed his neck just above his collarbone. Her eyes widened, and she looked to his face. He smiled and tightened his hands around her wrist. "Never let your guard down. Never trust anyone, and never leave yourself vulnerable." "What if I'd surprised you just now? I could have been sent by someone to kill you." "You wouldn't have." She arched her eyebrow. "I wouldn't have killed you?" "You wouldn't have surprised me." He continued. "You have to be aware. If someone is this close to you, holding a weapon, you need to be on your guard. I'm watching your eyes, your shoulders. I'm aware of how you're standing, where your balance is. If you tighten your muscles to strike, I'll feel it in your arm. You should be doing the same with me." Her eyes were cautious as she took in what he said. And he watched her look down, taking in his arms, the angle of his chest. Her gaze went inward and her lips fell slightly open as she tried to get a feel for his balance. Standing as close as they were, he could smell a light perfume on her skin. Thalia seemed to remember herself. She disengaged her wrist and backed away. "What makes a lass like you into a killer?" he asked. She shot him an annoyed look, and the tension left the room. "I didn't hire you to delve into my past." "Are you sure you want to do this? It changes you, you know, your first kill." A smile touched her lips, a hint of a challenge. "You're quite determined to have me think this over. Do you regret your first kill?" It was an interesting question, and he gave it some thought. "No," he finally said. "I regret not having done it sooner." "Who was it?" She tilted her head in anticipation of a tale. "Some Red Shield?" "My father." He smiled when her eyes widened. "I'll make you a deal. You can keep your secrets, and I'll keep mine." "Fair enough." In another moment, she was all business again. "So if I want to cut his throat, I have to get in close to him." "It's the only way. You can't beat him in a fair fight." She turned away. "I know I'm not as strong as a man." He shrugged. "And you never will be. But I killed grown men before I came of age. If you can't rely on strength, you rely on stealth. Surprise is your strongest asset, so make sure the first time kills." He paused. "If you kill him while he's alone, you might be able to escape. If there are others with him, you won't. Either way, you're just as likely to die from this venture as your mark. You know that, right?" "I do." Her voice was level, but he thought he caught a flash of despair in her eyes. What secrets was she holding that would drive her to do this? But that was her business.

Poison Dance

From New York Times bestselling author Livia Blackburne and illustrator Julia Kuo, here is I Dream of Popo. This delicate, emotionally rich picture book celebrates a special connection that crosses time zones and oceans as Popo and her granddaughter hold each other in their hearts forever. I dream with Popo as she rocks me in her arms. I wave at Popo before I board my flight. I talk to Popo from across the sea. I tell Popo about my adventures. When a young girl and her family emigrate from Taiwan to America, she leaves behind her beloved popo, her grandmother. She misses her popo every day, but even if their visits are fleeting, their love is ever true and strong.

I Dream of Popo

When Liliya is chosen to serve the God of Time, she sees a chance to forget the horrors of her past. Her new life at the temple is full of mysteries, from a globe that displays the future to a handsome young palanquin bearer who makes her smile. But though life is easier amongst the gods, it is also fraught with danger. And soon the threads of time ensnare Liliya in a web she may not be able to escape. Lord of Time is a short story of 4000 words, or roughly 16 printed pages.

A Short Story

Lord of Time

In this sweeping YA fantasy series, Disney's Princesses grow up--and learn to rule--guided by the magical Queen's Council. In Feather and Flame, Mulan must face a new kind of war . . . this time, as Empress of China. The war is over. Now a renowned hero, Mulan spends her days in her home village, training a militia of female warriors. The peace is a welcome one, and she knows it must be protected. When Shang arrives with an invitation to the Imperial City, Mulan's relatively peaceful life is upended once more. The aging emperor decrees that Mulan will be his heir to the throne. Such unimagined power and responsibility terrify her, but who can say no to the emperor? As Mulan ascends into the halls of power, it becomes clear that not everyone is on her side. Her ministers undermine her, and the Huns sense a weakness in the throne. When hints of treachery appear even amongst those she considers friends, Mulan has no idea whom she can trust. But the discovery of a mysterious, ancient magic helps Mulan uncover her true destiny. With renewed strength and the wisdom of those that came before her, Mulan will own her power, save her country, and prove once again that, crown or helmet, she was always meant to lead. This fierce reimagining of Mulan blends fairy-tale lore and real history with a Disney twist. "Blackburne packs Mulan's happily ever after with strong female friendships, a sweet romance, and high stakes." --School Library Journal

Feather and Flame (the Queen's Council, Book 2)

Clementine and Danny Save the World

Disney Enterprises (1996- ) Staff

Feather and Flame

You’ve Got Mail gets a fresh YA twist in this irresistible rom-com that spotlights the power of activism and community organizing in the face of gentrification, perfect for fans of Tweet Cute and Yes No Maybe So. Clementine Chan believes in the power of the written word. Under the pseudonym Hibiscus, she runs a popular blog reviewing tea shops and discussing larger issues within her Chinatown community. She has a loyal, kind following, save for this one sour grape named BobaBoy888. Danny Mok is allergic to change, and the gentrification seeping into Chinatown breaks his heart. He channels his frustration into his internet alter ego, BobaBoy888, bickering with local blogger Hibiscus over all things Chinatown and tea. When a major corporation reveals plans that threaten to shut down the Mok’s beloved tea shop, Clementine and Danny find themselves working together in real life to save this community they both love. But as they fall hard for this cause—and each other—they have no clue that their online personas have been fighting for years. When the truth comes to light, can Danny and Clementine still find their happily-ever-after?

An exceptional thief… Kyra specializes in nighttime raids, using her sharp senses and uncanny agility to plunder Forge’s wealthiest homes. Then she meets James, the deadly but intriguing Head of the Assassin’s Guild. He has a job for Kyra: infiltrate the impenetrable Palace compound. The pay is good, and the challenge appealing. But as Kyra establishes herself in the Guild, things start to unravel. Her assignments become increasingly violent, demanding more than Kyra is willing to give. And as she grows closer to the darkly attractive James, she can’t shake the feeling that his plans run deeper than he claims. A knight sworn to vengeance… When Tristam’s best friend is killed by Demon Riders—barbarians riding vicious wildcats—he vows to defeat them. The young knight throws himself into his quest, only to find his efforts thwarted by a mysterious and very talented thief. When a twist of fate throws Kyra and Tristam together, they realize that Forge faces greater dangers than either of them had imagined. They must make a choice: continue to fight each other, or work together to unravel the truth. Then, as sinister forces close in, Kyra and Tristam discover a shocking secret that will change their lives forever.

A terminally ill healer… Zivah was once her village’s most promising young healer, mastering potions that altered both body and mind. But when she’s conscripted to treat a battalion of grievously ill soldiers, Zivah contracts the deadly rose plague. Now she’s doomed to a slow, solitary death, cut off from everyone she loves. A broken warrior… Dineas grew up fighting to free his people from the Amparan empire, but capture and torture have left him shattered. Though he’s now escaped from the emperor’s dungeons, he cannot outrun the lingering effects of his trauma. Zivah and Dineas share nothing but loathing for the empire and a deep-seated wish to be useful again. When they’re presented with an unexpected chance to help their people, they’re drawn to the opportunity, even if the perils are great. If Zivah can use her potions to remove Dineas’s memories, he could infiltrate and undermine the imperial army. Success could bring the freedom they’ve longed for. Failure would mean death, or the loss of their very selves. As healer and warrior set off on the most dangerous mission of their lives, they navigate shifting allegiances, hidden assassins, and a disease that’s left its mark on every aspect of their world. And as Zivah and Dineas’s distrust for each other gives way to a growing attraction, the two must untangle their treacherous emotions before everything falls apart.

Jonathan Maberry

Neil Gaiman

Andrew Mayne

Alan Dean Foster

Seanan McGuire

John Skipp

Scott Sigler

Bryan Thomas Schmidt

A. C. Crispin

Orson Scott Card

Cory Doctorow

Martin L. Shoemaker

Beth Cato

Mercedes M. Yardley

Raymund Eich

Ken Scholes

Peter J. Wacks

Kristine Kathryn Rusch

Kent Holloway

Jody Lynn Nye

Chelsea Quinn Yarbro

Brenda Cooper

Claire Ashgrove

Tori Eldridge

Kathleen O'Malley

Julie Frost

Robert` Silverberg

Jay Werkheiser

C. Stuart Hardwick

K. C. McEntire

Roshni "Rush" Bhatia

Surviving Tomorrow contains twenty-nine stories about survivors, over half of them original and published here for the first time. Struck by a desire to help people as the pandemic unfolded, editor Bryan Thomas Schmidt decided to try and use his skills as an anthologist to raise funding for COVID-19 support by creating an anthology with two purposes-fundraising and provide readers with stories that would speak to them as they manage the stress of our changing social landscape. Bryan took the idea to a friend he knew was at that time suffering from the novel coronavirus who also happened to be a medical publisher-Peter J. Wacks-and asked if he'd be willing to build the project. Peter spoke to Isabel Penraeth-who was in the process of launching a new specialty edition publishing house-about the project? and the anthology was in incubation. People from four different publishing enterprises joined forces to bring this book to life. After conversations with the authors you see below, all of whom are allowing their work to be published without remuneration, the anthology became a living, breathing reality. The stories in Surviving Tomorrow focus on the impacts of extraordinary circumstances on the people they depict and how they respond, and though a few are longer, most of the stories are short enough to be read in a few minutes' time-designed to provide a brief escape from the worries of the moment into another world and renew your spirit and mind. All profits from Surviving Tomorrow go to providing COVID-19 tests directly to the front lines of this crisis, or your portion can be earmarked for one of the charities you can select on the checkout page. As we start to achieve distributing to the front lines, we will post a thermometer here to show how many (and where) the tests are landing. Available in a limited, numbered, gold-leaf embossed collector's edition as well as hardcover, trade paperback, and ebook, Surviving Tomorrow will provide hours of enjoyment even as it saves lives.

A Charity Anthology to Fight COVID-19

Surviving Tomorrow

Once upon a time there was a girl. She was a sweet child, with bright blue eyes, a dimpled smile, and curly golden hair that tumbled over her shoulders. The most distinctive thing about her, however, was a red cloak that she wore everywhere she went. The village called her Little Red Riding Hood. What is it that transforms a page full of words into a tale that entertains us, informs us, and ultimately leaves us changed? In her essay From Words to Brain, former MIT neuroscientist Livia Blackburne explores the brain basis of reading–a skill that is incredibly complex and integral to modern culture. Using the classic fairy tale Little Red Riding Hood as a guide, Blackburne follows the story from its physical manifestation on the page, through the reader’s visual system, and ultimately into the reader’s imagination and beyond. Because the experience of reading a story does not end with the last page. That’s the point at which the real magic begins. From Words to Brain is 6700 words long, or roughly 27 printed pages.

From Words to Brain

With their cover blown and their identities revealed, Zivah and Dineas are on the run. Not only did they fail to bring down the emperor, but their betrayal has brought the full might of Ampara against their people. Now their only choice is to rejoin their kin and prepare for the oncoming war. As armies mobilize and fortifications rise, Zivah and Dineas grapple with the aftermath of their fateful mission. Dineas’s fellow Shidadi no longer trust him after his time in Ampara. And with his constant flashbacks—and lingering feelings of loyalty toward his former comrades—Dineas wonders if his kinsmen might be right. Meanwhile, Zivah faces growing pressure to betray her healer’s vows. Is it worth honoring the Goddess’s wishes if it means the destruction of all she knows? On top of that, she’s having flashes of fever—signs that her illness is returning to claim her. As the world around them threatens to collapse, Zivah and Dineas must decide how they feel about each other. Was the love and friendship they shared in Sehmar City an illusion, or is it strong enough to save them all?

Livia Blackburne

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