A chosen-one YA fantasy debut novel inspired by Asian culture with a richly developed world—perfect for fans of Elizabeth Lim, Amélie Wen Zhao, and Sue Lynn Tan.
Sozo was born cursed. Called a monster. Raised to hide. But Sozo is done running.
Abandoned by her parents when her Omen stain appeared, Sozo survives the streets through her secret weapon: her ability to conceal her curse. It's a rare talent that her shadowy mentor, Esp, sees as the key to infiltrating and competing in the Decade Race of Stars.
The race is deadly, but the prize is irresistible: a single wish for anything. Esp dreams of using it to reshape the world, and Sozo convinces herself the risk is worth it, but keeping her stain hidden—and her monstrous side in check—is harder with every challenge, especially when sunny Naqi enters the picture, offering her kindness and friendship she was never allowed.
As Sozo fights to survive the race, doubts creep in. Should she claim the wish for Esp no matter the cost? But what if it hurts Naqi?
With monsters lurking inside and out, Sozo must decide whose future she's fighting for and if she's willing to pay the ultimate price.