Another incredible story from the queen, Sabaa Tahir! Heir takes place 20 years after the events in An Ember in the Ashes series. Sabaa is a masterful storyteller and Heir was no different. Sabaa could publish her grocery list and I would read it!

Pick Heir up if you love…
✨The An Ember in the Ashes series (this takes place 20 years after this series!)
✨Fantasy
✨Slow burn
✨Multiple POVs- an orphan, a prince, and a tracker
✨Power and greed
✨Magical creatures

"You were born to a Plebian and an Illustrian. Brought into the world by a Scholar, Raised among the Tribes. You are the best of the Empire. And she needs you. Remember the words of your Gens. Loyal to the end."

Heir is an incredible follow up to the Ember Quartet, with new characters and new mysteries to unravel. A gruesome mystery is targeting young people, while a foreign enemy invades and threatens the stability of the Martial Empire. Aiz is an orphan with untapped power who only wants to save her struggling people. When a holy force speaks to her, she knows she must leave her home in order to save those she loves. Sirsha has been cast out from her people, wandering distant lands, when a mysterious individual hires her for a job - track down a killer that is plaguing the Empire. But when her path crosses with a charismatic young man, she begins to question what she really wants in this world. Quil is the reluctant heir to the Martial Empire, the son of the most hated emperor in history. He knows what he needs to do to save his people, but can he find the strength to move beyond his past, and step into the role he was born into?

Set in the same world as the Ember Quartet and featuring a new generation of characters, Heir was a fast paced, gripping fantasy adventure. I could not put this book down. Heir has three new primary POVs - Aiz, Sirsha, and Quil. I was excited to see some familiar faces while also enjoying these new characters and new stories. I absolutely loved how this story unfolded. It was so well done to see how the three separate storylines converged into a thrilling conclusion. As the first book in a duology, we are left with plenty of questions at the end, but it only makes me want book two as soon as possible. Sabaa's storytelling is unmatched, and I was totally immersed in this world throughout the story. There were some difficult parts - the book does deal with the mysterious death of young people, including children, and as a mom that was tough to read, but it is handled with care. Overall though, I loved this book, and I love these new characters so much, and love to see the story that started with Ember in the Ashes growing and continuing. I cannot wait to read the next one!!

Thank you so, so, much to NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group for the advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

***Thank you SO much to Netgalley and Penguin Random House for sending me an e-arc of Heir by Sabaa Tahir! All thoughts are my own!***

An orphan.
An outcast.
A prince.
And a killer who will bring an empire to its knees.

Well, to say I was excited to get a chance to read and review Heir early is an understatement. This book has been one of my most anticipated reads of 2024 since I found out this book was being released.

Sabaa has done it again with an amazing book back in the world of the Martial Empire. She is truly an amazing storyteller, a Kehanni in her own right. The Ember Quartet is one of my favorite series of all time, so I was so glad to come back to the amazing world she has created. She creates a fantasy world like no other. There's a touch of magic and, of course, amazing world building.

She blends the multiple perspectives seamlessly while also having an action-packed story, with twists at every turn. Our characters, Aiz, Sirsha, and Quil, all come from separate backgrounds. I was so happy to hear Quil was a main character in this book, considering how young he was in the Ember Quartet. Sabaa just writes such amazing complex stories that you don't see much in YA today.

And yes, I will admit, Heir had me screaming at the various plot twists and the cliffhanger ending, but trust me, it is worth it! I cannot wait for the second book in this duology!

While reading the Ember Quartet is not required before reading Heir, I highly recommend you do. You will not be able to get enough of Sabaa's writing and the way she holds her readers captive with her amazing writing.

Heir by Sabaa Tahir is out today, October 1st!

Honestly, what crack has Sabaa Tahir put in her books? I cannot get enough!! I loved being back in the world of Ember in the Ashes.

This book was phenomenal! Seriously no notes, no critiques. Only profound love for tahir’s work.

Review will be posted from 10/1-10/3. I will come back to add link to review. Thank you for the advanced copy!!

after loving the ember in the ashes quartet, i was so excited to get to this book and it didn’t disappoint. i personally feel like its better to have read that series before reading this spinoff as the world building is expanded on top of what’s already established previously and 2 of the characters are the young relatives of the main characters of an ember in the ashes.

it took me a minute to get into the story but once i did i was immediately invested. there’s 4 main characters: Sirsha, Quil, Cero and Aiz and they all had interesting motivations that drove their actions. Sirsha is a tracker who is tasked with finding someone who’s been killing children around the empire and she’s definitely my fav character along with Quil. Quil is the crown prince of the empire who is struggling with his role and all that comes with it in the shadow of his aunt. i was living for the bits of romance between him and Sirsha, their connection was palpable and i loved the push and pull dynamic going on between them. Aiz is set on revenge due to the way her people have been treated over the years and is harboring a dark connection to a being far more dangerous and powerful than she realizes. Cero is a skilled fighter who’s a close friend of Aiz and tries to do what he can to assist her, while also worrying over the situation Aiz has landed herself in. there’s a lot to like about this story and the way the author wrote Div (the main antagonist) just proved even more how great she is at writing multi layered characters who are all intriguing in their own right, whether you’re supposed to like them or not. this was a promising start to this duology and i will 100% be reading the sequel!

Sabaa can do no wrong. She is a master not just of prose but of creating characters that feel so startingly alive and complex. I ate this up the same way I ate of AEITA and I am so excited to be back in this world, especially with Quil. There's no one else I'd rather let break my heart into a million pieces than Sabaa Tahir. I bow down the the heartbreak queen.

This book was a fantasy masterpiece. It had adventure, just the right amount of trauma, and amazing romance. The different POVs were expertly navigated and I cannot wait to see what the characters do next.

One more minute is too long to wait for the sequel.

Thank you for this ARC, this was absolutely my most anticipated book of the fall! Heir was solid and engaging, but I did guess the plot twists. I loved seeing characters from the original quartet, though I hope someday Sabaa decides to take mercy on them and let them be happy! I didn't feel quite as invested in the new characters, but I think thats unsurprising given I was so attached to the original characters and this was just the first book of the new series. Looking forward to continuing the series and seeing Sabaa on her book tour!

5 stars. Full disclosure-- I have not read the An Ember in the Ashes series. But after reading Heir, you better believe I will 100% go back and read that series. Because Heir was exceptional, and if An Ember in the Ashes is even half as good, I know I'll be in for a wild ride. Without a doubt, my favorite fantasy series are the Six of Crows series and the Throne of Glass series. The reason I love these books is two fold: 1) I love all of the twists, turns, surprises, and betrayals; 2) the found family vibes are strong. And although I've heard people compare books to both of those series, few ever live up to the hype. I'm not sure if Heir is being compared to the Throne of Glass or Six of Crows series, but it definitely brings the twists and definitely brings the found family. And I was hear for every second of it. Heir is told (mostly) from 3 POVS, and I definitely had a favorite character. That said, all 3 POVs were compelling. There was a fair bit of world building, especially for someone that didn't read her other series, and there were also a LOT of characters. That said, I didn't really have a hard time following along, and nothing really dragged pace wise. 2024 so the release of fantasy books by some pretty big juggernauts of the genre, but as of October, Heir is my current favorite fantasy read of the year. The only negative I can think of is that I have to wait for book 2, and given that ending, book 2 cannot come soon enough.

Thank you so much to Tahir, Penguin Teen, and netgalley for hooking me up with an ARC and physical copy in exchange for my honest review!

This was everything I wanted it to be.

Heir
By Sabaa Tahir
4.5⭐️

In my head Ember In the Ashes is a 5⭐️ series. It has stuck out to me in a genre I love where I continuously think about it and recommend it to others in front of many other loved series.

I was excited and a little nervous for Heir and I cannot believe I was selected for this ARC. Turns out I had nothing to be nervous about, Sabaa did what she does. She created a cast of characters I became easily endeared to. Developed an intriguing plot that had me devouring this every chance I got. And of course left me on a cliffhanger that has me dying for book 2.

Now the big question, Do I need to read the Ember quartet first? Yes and no. Do I think the experience will be richer if you go in knowing the OG cast, absolutely. But while they play a part in the book you can absolutely still understand everything that happens in Heir without the background and the new characters are the focus. You can understand the world without knowing the history, but the world has a rich history in Ember that will help you understand how it got to where it is in Heir.

And also you just NEED to read The Ember Quartet, so also yes.

Also if you love maps, Sabaa has a preorder map gift that you still have time to take advantage of before pub day on Tuesday.

Thank you to @penguinteen @sabaatahir and @netgalley for giving me the chance to dive into this amazing follow up.

I don’t read as many fantasy books as I used to even though I still love them. When I heard about this book I was so excited. If you know me, you know I love the Ember Quartet, it is my favorite series ever. Sabaa Tahir did not disappoint with this book and I can’t wait to read the next one. 

This book takes place 20 years after the events of A Sky Beyond the Storm. There are three main characters. We have Quil, Helene’s nephew and the prince, Sirsha, a tracker with magic and Aiz, an orphan with a need for revenge. Their stories all end up intertwining in an interesting way.  

Right away, the book hooks the reader. There is a bit of a mystery because something is about to happen but the reader doesn’t know what. You have to keep reading to figure it out. Sometimes books take a while to get to the point and it is just setting up the story and setting, especially in fantasy books. However, in this book, the story starts moving from the first chapter. Sabaa Tahir is amazing at setting the scene with detail without it getting boring. There are multiple povs throughout the book, most prominent being the three main characters. The chapters go from one POV to another, leaving the reader in suspense. There were times where I felt the chapter that followed a suspenseful chapter was boring but that wasn’t often. 

Sabaa Tahir has a way of writing her characters in a way that the readers feel connected to them or hate them passionately. I always have strong feelings towards her characters. I love that we saw some of the characters from the Ember Quartet as well as new ones. I also love the relationships in this book. I loved the romantic and platonic relationships. I love the close bonds that the characters have with each other. While nothing beats Laia and Elias for me, I still loved the couple in this book. 

One thing I loved about the Ember Quartet was the beautiful writing. This book has that same beautiful writing. It made me cry and feel sad, scared, and relieved. This truly is a roller coaster of a book. This book is so chaotic and confusing, but in a good way. I found myself gasping out loud every couple of chapters after a new discovery. I will say, be prepared to cry. Have a box of tissues with you. I lost track of the amount of times my eyes teared up. If you read An Ember in the Ashes and loved it, read this. If you haven’t, go read that series first and then read this book. It is not needed to read this book but the Ember Quartet is worth reading.

I never knew where this book was going and every time I thought I did, I was wrong. I can’t wait for the next book and will be counting down the months until it comes out because that was a shocking ending. Sabaa Tahir has a way of writing that always makes me want to keep reading even when it breaks my heart. The story this book tells is a heartbreaking and impactful story that I think everyone should read.

Thank you Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This was a wonderfully put together story! It had me hooked within a few chapters and I really felt invested in every character’s journey. There was banter, there was romance, there was mystery! And the ending has left me needing more! I can’t wait to continue this journey. I have a good feeling about this series.

4.5 stars
I LOVED this book. Sabaa Tahir knows how to write a book that captivates you from beginning to end. She will always be an instant buy author for me.
I do recommend reading her other series (An Ember in the Ashes) before this. I did find it would’ve helped me during certain parts such as the world building, backstories and character development.

“Heir” (available on October 1st) is set in the same world as Sabaa Tahir’s highly popular four book YA fantasy series, “An Ember in the Ashes.” Since readers are still in the same world, and a few of the main characters from that series are integral to the plot, “Heir” can feel like it’s simply the fifth book in the series.

Could you start with “Heir” and be able to understand what is going on and also love the characters? Absolutely YES.

Would you be spoiled for surprises and outcomes if you jump into "Heir” knowing you might want to read Tahir’s previous books set in this world? Absolutely YES.

If however, you don’t want to commit to reading the [now] five books of the entire series and just want to start with “Heir,” it would be a worthwhile decision. I enjoyed “Heir” immensely and could not put it down.

Just note that “Heir” is not a stand alone novel as it ends on a cliffhanger for what appears to be planned as a duology (which could turn into another huge series, thought, right?).

More details here: www.wilsonhillworks.com/reviews/heir

Content Warnings:
General gore
Violence against children
Pedicide.
Colonization
War
Genocide
Familial abuse
Mild spice

Thank you to Sabaa Tahir, Putnam Books for Young Readers, and Neutrally for the advanced reader copy.

Heir is an exciting, action-packed, can't-put-down first book in a new epic fantasy series by Sabaa Tahir. Heir is easily one of the best, if not THE best, book I've read in 2024.

Aiz is an orphan who once believed she was destined to be a pilot; however, she now cleans the airfields and watches as others live out her dreams. When one reckless decision lands her in the land's most horrific jail, she needs to devise a plan not only to escape but also to carve a better future for her people. Sirsha is a magical tracker who was disowned by her family and community. She now survives by taking odd jobs and moving from place to place. When she is hired by an unusual stranger to track a terrifying murderer, she believes the job will be an easy pay day. Unfortunately, this murderer not only is unnatural but also is the most dangerous creature Sirsha has ever seen. Finally, Quil is the heir to the empire. While not exactly thrilled to be next in line to rule, he still wants what is best for his people. He is devastated when a foreign people attack the empire and he is forced to run. Now, in order to gain control of his land again, Quil must seek answers about his past, his family, and this evil power that is terrorizing his people.

First, the world building in Heir is amazing! Second, Sabaa Tahir is an epic storyteller. Third, the characters are all complex and extremely well-developed. I laughed, I cried, I yelled - I had all the emotions throughout this book! The story is told through the three main characters' POVs. There is definitely a huge twist that I absolutely did not see coming. I was shocked and had to reread a few chapters to believe it. It was great writing! I am completely obsessed with this book and cannot wait for the next in the series. Easy five stars!!!

AHHHH I LOVED THIS BOOK!!! I’m already itching for book 2 I NEED to know what happens next. The plot in this was fantastic - if you liked the Daevabad trilogy or Throne of Glass, you’d love this. I feel so connected to all of the characters. The way the story is told is so unique & really has you in the dark for plot twists & grand reveals. The romance subplot!!!!! DELICIOUS. OH MY GOD. The dialogue between the two?? I could scream about it AH. This was just so well done. I need more like I need air.

Thank you SO MUCH Penguin Teen Canada for the ARC, I absolutely LOVED this book so much!!!

Sabaa Tahir does it again!! I am a fan of her previous works and Heir ABSOLUTELY DELIVERS!!! The world building is richly and seamlessly woven together between the POVs of our protagonists. Tahir’s storytelling is so effective at integrating themes that reflect the current political climate in the world. I felt every emotion imaginable throughout the course of the story and cannot wait until I get my hands on the next book!!!

Thank you again to NetGalley and Penguin Young Readers Group/G. P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers Group for a chance to read and review an advanced copy of this book!

Heir by Sabaa Tahir is a gripping, heart-pounding journey from start to finish. Tahir weaves an intense tale of power, betrayal, and survival that keeps you on the edge of your seat with every twist and revelation. The stakes are higher than ever, and the emotional depth will leave you breathless long after the final page—an unforgettable read that cuts deep!

I really need to do better about thinking twice before starting a series where I'll have to wait a long time before being able to read the next book, because SKIES THAT ENDING!!!! My jaw is still on the floor.

It was so great and nostalgic being back in the world of Helene, Elias, and Laia. Heir takes place 20 years after An Ember in the Ashes. While I haven't really seen it mentioned anywhere that reading the An Ember in the Ashes quartet first is required, I think it would be super beneficial. I read those books when they first published, so it's been a while since I've been fully immersed in this world. I think having it fresh on your mind will help with some of the background regarding world building as well as where Helene, Elias, and Laia are today.

I decided to take my time with this one for 2 reasons: 1. I loved An Ember in the Ashes SO much and was much too excited for this spin off that I didn't want to rush it. And 2, there are a few characters to keep track of here. Sabaa Tahir is such a master storyteller, and I didn't find it hard to keep up with the story lines, but due to the world building, it is not one you'll want to rush through.

I'm so happy for the author and this continuation of such an incredible world that she's built. It was one of my highly anticipated reads for 2024, and it did not disappoint. I cannot recommend this enough!

"When you sacrifice other people's children on the alter of your ambition, it's only a matter of time before you'll be willing to sacrifice your own. That's how evil works, [redacted]."

""For the people" was a blood-soaked shield brandished by tyrants everywhere."

Two quotes that stuck with me the most in a book that has left me haunted. And so so so ready for book two. No book by THE Sabaa Tahir has ever left me unscathed and Heir was truly no exception. The way this woman had me constantly looking over my metaphorical shoulder hoping my faves are okay is something that should be studied. Almost 500 pages of discovering new characters, new adventures, new ways to be hurt but also with the familiar background of a series and a world that reminded me how important books truly are.

Following this second-generation of Sabaa characters who are hunting an enemy both familiar and new, was such a treat. And by treat I mean by like page 100 I was stopping after every chapter to take a calming breath. And the characters! Quil you are such a mix of Elias and Helene it's incredible. Sirsha, you are so strong and stoic but somehow have some of the best one liners ever. Arelia and Sufiyan, the best duo to round out yet another iconic found family. I don't know where I'm going with this but few people can create and cultivate a wonderful found family like Sabaa and she sure showed up in Heir.

But back to those two quotes, and a mention of the synopsis: "the devastating consequences of unchecked greed". If anyone at this point in US exceptionalism believes that any media we consume is created and exists in a vacuum is deluding themselves. Reading about a tyrant who considers the actions of the few reason to punish the many and the corruptive power of greed in between scrolling yet another day of horrifying atrocities being committed for the benefit of an empire is probably what will stick with me the most. When you read Heir (which you must), escape into the story, like every Sabaa book deserves, but do not let yourself gloss over what world Sirsha and Quil and Aiz and Sufiyan are existing in.

Thank you Penguin Teen and Netgalley for my advanced copy.