Publishers Weekly
06/26/2023
Vee and Bebelle (who previously collaborated on the Seattle Slayers series) launch their Phoenix Hoard series with an action-packed urban fantasy set in a supernatural San Francisco. Magic-less Emiko Soong has lived her life as her family’s Blade, acting as a warrior, enforcer, and executioner and earning a reputation as the Butcher of Beijing, her Sword of Truth always strapped to her back. Now retired, Emiko seeks out a quiet life in California, hoping to leave bloodshed and violence in her past. But when a death god to whom her family owes a blood debt calls in a favor, Emiko can’t say no; either she locates the Ebony Gate—a door that holds back the ghosts of the underworld—on the god’s behalf or she’ll be forced to forfeit her soul. The ensuing epic quest is full of humor, action, and well-executed fight scenes, while also exploring the weight of past traumas, violence, and transgressions. Emiko is a heroine readers will eagerly cheer on, hopefully for many books to come. (July)
From the Publisher
Featured in Paste magazine's “Most Anticipated Fantasy Books of Summer 2023”
Praise for Ebony Gate
“Ebony Gate is a snarky Harry Dresden meets Shang-Chi, with a dash of Monster Hunter International.” — Kevin J. Anderson, New York Times bestselling co-author of Dune: House Atreides
“A wild, exhilarating ride through a living San Francisco populated with ghosts, magical beasts, and one tough-as-nails heroine. Adventurous and filled with heart, exploring the struggles of a bloody past and familial duty, Ebony Gate is a spectacular start to what promises to be an engrossing series.” — Andrea Stewart, author of The Bone Shard Daughter
“Ebony Gate is a bizarre and exciting thrill ride! It’s Doctor Strange meets Shang-Chi with a big dose of original characters, modern fantasy, and dynamic action. Highly recommended!” — Jonathan Maberry, New York Times bestselling author of the Joe Ledger Thrillers and Kagen the Damned
“It’s like reading my favorite martial arts movies, with magic that will blow your mind.” — Brian D. Anderson, bestselling author of The Godling Chronicles
“Perfect for fans of Fonda Lee’s The Green Bone Saga series.”— San Francisco Bay Times
“Set against the vivid background of San Francisco's singular neighborhoods, the novel's plot is clever and wildly adventurous, boasts an authentic sensibility, and is populated with well-drawn characters.” — Shelf Awareness, starred review
“Put this book in the hands of fans of Fonda Lee’s ‘Green Bone Saga.’” — Library Journal
Library Journal
05/01/2023
As a member of one of the eight powerful magical families of the world, Emiko Soong might have been hindered by her lack of magic. However, she is the Blade of the Soong Clan and earned her moniker as the Butcher of Beijing through the blood of too many innocents. Setting aside her role and living in San Francisco, Emiko becomes an antiques dealer and tries to put the past behind her. When a family blood-debt is called in by a shinigami—a god of death—Emiko finds that her deadly skills are needed to keep an army of ghosts from invading the world. If Emiko cannot recover the Ebony Gate, then her own soul will be used to seal the gate to the underworld. Hints at family secrets and a possible relationship will have readers looking for the next book. VERDICT The contemporary setting and unusual magical system create an intriguing beginning to this series from Vee and Bebelle, who also write the "Seattle Slayers" series together. Put this book in the hands of fans of Fonda Lee's "Green Bone Saga."—Kristi Chadwick
