SONS OF DAY & NIGHT

In the country of Twinsbane, everyone believes that King Daccias is the “only living soul without a twin.”

But is he really? Fifteen-year-old Waruu, an orphan who’s part of a group of Separatists, is also sure that he doesn’t have a twin. Twins’ fates are intertwined: If one dies, so does the other. The people of Twinsbane want to sever this connection and live freely. Two hundred years ago, King Langhorne used a potion called the Separator to ensure that kings don’t have doubles. Waruu is trying to steal the Separator when, by chance, he stumbles across a painted portrait of the king hanging in the castle. To his shock, they’re each other’s Night and Day doubles. With help from fellow Separatists, Waruu kidnaps the king and takes his place. But when the deadly Midnight Plague reaches Twinsbane, the situation becomes desperate. Waruu’s running out of time to save everyone. Can he convince King Daccias to tell them where to find the Separator? In a kingdom shaped by secrets and folklore, uncovering the truth is the only path to freedom. Debut author Aristeo’s worldbuilding is solid, and her characterization has depth, with both primary and secondary characters having believable motivations for their actions. Daccias and Waruu, both cued white, alternate narrating this action-packed, mystery-filled story.

A great beginning to a new fantasy series that explores what divides and connects us.