"e;The Bloodprint is extraordinary. The book is wonderfully written; its poetic prose and mix of history, faith, and adventure reminiscent of a post-apocalyptic Odyssey...this time with a pair of women warriors at the helm.' S.A. Chakraborty, author of The City of BrassThe author of the acclaimed mystery The Unquiet Dead delivers her first fantasy novelthe opening installment in a thrilling quarteta tale of religion, oppression, and political intrigue that radiates with heroism, wonder, and hope.A dark power called the Talisman, born of ignorance and persecution, has risen in the land. Led by a man known only as the One-Eyed Preacher, it is a cruel and terrifying movement bent on world dominationa superstitious patriarchy that suppresses knowledge and subjugates women. And it is growing. But there are those who fight the Talismans spread, including the Companions of Hira, a diverse group of influential women whose power derives from the Claimthe magic inherent in the words of a sacred scripture. Foremost among them is Arian and her fellow warrior, Sinnia, skilled fighters who are knowledgeable in the Claim. This daring pair have long stalked Talisman slave-chains, searching for clues and weapons to help them battle their enemys oppressive ways. Now they may have discovered a miraculous symbol of hope that can destroy the One-Eyed Preacher and his fervid followers: the Bloodprint, a dangerous text the Talisman has tried to erase from the world. Finding the Bloodprint promises to be their most perilous undertaking yet, an arduous journey that will lead them deep into Talisman territory. Though they will be helped by alliesa loyal boy they freed from slavery and a man that used to be both Arians confidant and sword masterArian and Sinnia know that this mission may well be their last.