Description
Book SynopsisFor a young woman who wields the power of fear, humanity’s greatest enemy is her only hope in a new romantic, adventure-filled fantasy by Amazon Charts and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Charlie N. Holmberg. Seven years on the run from her abusive father, and with no hope of sanctuary among the dwindling pockets of human civilization, Lark is out of options. Her only leverage is a cursed power: she can thrust fear onto others, leaving all threats fleeing in terror. It’s a means of survival as she searches for a place to call home. If the campfire myths of her childhood are true, Lark’s sole chance for refuge could lie in Cagmar, the city of trolls—a brutal species and the sworn enemies of humanity. Valuing combat prowess, the troll high council is intrigued. Lark could be much more useful than the low-caste humans who merely labor in Cagmar. Her gift makes her invaluable as a monster slayer to fight off the unspeakable creatures that torment the trolls’ hanging city, suspended from a bridge over an endless dark canyon. Lark will do anything to make Cagmar her home, but her new role comes with a caveat: use her power against a troll, and she’ll be killed. Her loyalty is quickly put to the test when she draws the hatred of a powerful troll who loathes humankind. Still, she finds unexpected friendship in the city and, even more surprisingly, love. But if everything else doesn’t undo her, being caught in the arms of a troll surely will. Now in the fight of her life, Lark has a lot to learn—about her past, about trust and hope when all seems lost, and above all, about the extraordinary power of fear itself.
Trade ReviewPraise for The Hanging City “Holmberg does a fantastic job of humanizing her nonhuman characters…This twisty adventure will have fantasy readers hooked.” —Publishers Weekly “Holmberg’s worldbuilding is detailed and dystopian but still possesses the same enchantment as tales told once upon a time. For fans of T. Kingfisher, this sweet story of belonging is a romantic twist on the classic bridge-troll fairy tale.” —Library Journal “A tale of love, belonging, and embracing one’s fears, Holmberg leaves readers asking who the real monsters actually are in a tale full of creative world building.” —Booklist “Lyrical and striking, The Hanging City is an enchanting story of romance within a harsh world and an even more unforgiving society. Navigating class conflict, rigid social rules, and bitter hierarchies, The Hanging City explores the many types of love that people can find between one another, and is as unsparing in its depiction of the consequences of love as it is thrilling, rewarding, and heart-felt.” —Robert Jackson Bennett, author of Foundryside and City of Stairs “Holmberg’s latest is rife with forbidden romance, monsters, and unique world building. Not only will readers enjoy delving deep into the canyons the trolls call their home, but Lark’s journey will also leave a mark deep on their hearts.” —Tricia Levenseller, New York Times bestselling author of Blade of Secrets Praise for Charlie N. Holmberg “Holmberg knows just how to please fantasy fans.” —Publishers Weekly “Holmberg is a genius at world building.” —Booklist “Charlie is a vibrant writer with an excellent voice and great world building.” —Brandon Sanderson, author of Mistborn and The Way of Kings
