The Jasad Heir (The Scorched Throne, Book 1)

In a world where magic is outlawed and a kingdom lies in ashes, The Jasad Heir introduces Sylvia, the last survivor of a royal massacre who has spent a decade hiding in plain sight. Ten years after her homeland of Jasad was destroyed by the Nizahl empire, Sylvia lives as an alchemist’s apprentice, burying her identity and magic to avoid the hunters who slaughter her people. But when a moment of anger exposes her power to Arin—the ruthless heir of Nizahl—she’s forced into a deadly bargain: help him hunt rebels to stay alive, all while concealing who she truly is.

Sara Hashem crafts a richly layered world steeped in Egyptian-inspired lore, where political tensions simmer beneath desert sands and ancient magic pulses with danger. Sylvia navigates a treacherous game of deception, torn between the quiet life she’s built and the crown she abandoned, while Arin’s sharp intellect and icy demeanor make every interaction a high-stakes gamble. Their reluctant alliance crackles with tension, weaving a slow-burn romance that feels earned, not rushed, as hatred blurs into something far more complicated.

The novel’s strength lies in its morally complex characters and immersive worldbuilding. Sylvia isn’t a chosen-one savior but a survivor wrestling with guilt, loyalty, and the weight of a legacy she never wanted. Supporting characters—from fiercely loyal friends to shadowy rebels—add depth to a story that balances intimate personal struggles with sweeping political intrigue. Hashem avoids fantasy clichés, instead exploring themes of identity, sacrifice, and whether justice can ever justify violence.

Critics praise the book’s elegant prose and atmospheric setting, where every market stall, whispered prayer, and desert wind feels vividly real. The trials and battles aren’t just physical contests but tests of character, revealing how Sylvia’s past shapes her choices in a world that sees her people as monsters. With its intricate magic system and nuanced portrayal of cultural conflict, The Jasad Heir feels both fresh and timeless, a story where every alliance could be a trap and every secret a potential weapon.

This debut has captivated readers with its emotional depth and razor-sharp storytelling, earning spots on “Best of 2023” lists from USA Today, BuzzFeed, and B&N Reads. It’s a tale for anyone who craves fantasy that prioritizes character over spectacle—a slow burn that smolders until the final page, leaving you desperate for the next chapter in Sylvia’s journey.