What if your forbidden language was also your most powerful weapon? How do you fight for your culture, your magic, and your freedom against an empire that wants to erase you?
Prepare to be swept into a breathtaking world of ancient magic, fierce rebellion, and the incredible power hidden within words themselves. Amélie Wen Zhao’s Song of Silver, Flame Like Night is an electrifying start to an epic fantasy series, promising dazzling action, intricate world-building, and a fight for the very soul of a people.
What Kind of Book Is It?
- Genre: Young Adult (YA) Fantasy / Chinese-Inspired Fantasy / Epic Fantasy / Romance
- Tone: Adventurous, magical, high-stakes, emotionally resonant, and empowering
- Setting: A vibrant, imperial fantasy world heavily inspired by ancient China, under the oppressive rule of a conquering empire.
- Pacing: Fast-paced and action-packed, with a strong narrative drive, unfolding mysteries, and thrilling magical confrontations.
What Dazzling Saga Awaits You? (Spoiler-Free!)
Step into the world of Lan, a young woman living under the iron fist of the Elanti empire. Her people’s culture, their ancient language, and most importantly, their unique magic—a magic intrinsically tied to ancient Chinese script—have been outlawed and systematically suppressed. Lan works a grim job, collecting the bodies of those who dared to practice the forbidden arts.
But Lan holds a secret: she possesses a rare and dangerous gift, a burgeoning connection to the very magic her oppressors seek to eradicate. Her hidden power soon draws her into the orbit of Zen, a mysterious figure who is a master of the forbidden arts and seemingly a rebel prince. Zen is fiercely determined to reclaim his heritage and ignite a rebellion against the Elanti.
Their paths intertwine as they embark on a perilous journey to uncover long-lost secrets, gather allies, and master the dangerous power that flows through their veins. They will face formidable enemies, defy an empire, and discover the true meaning of their intertwined destinies, all while navigating a complex and undeniable connection.
This story is about:
- A powerful magic system based on language and ancient script.
- A thrilling rebellion against an oppressive, conquering empire.
- The fight for cultural preservation and reclaiming lost heritage.
- A journey of self-discovery and embracing dangerous power.
- A compelling relationship forged amidst high stakes and rebellion.
Why You’ll Be OBSESSED with This Book
- Ingenious Magic System: The concept of magic being tied to language and calligraphy is incredibly unique and beautifully executed, making for truly exciting and imaginative spells.
- Rich, Immersive World-Building: Amélie Wen Zhao crafts a stunning world inspired by imperial China, filled with intricate details, ancient lore, and a palpable sense of history.
- Dynamic & Driven Protagonists: Lan and Zen are both compelling characters with strong motivations, complex pasts, and a chemistry that sparks off the page.
- Thrilling Action & High Stakes: The book is packed with intense magical battles, daring escapes, and political intrigue, keeping you on the edge of your seat.
- Themes of Identity & Resilience: It’s a powerful story about finding your voice, fighting for your culture, and reclaiming your power in the face of oppression.
Ready to wield words as weapons and spark a revolution in a world of silver and flame? Ready to get lost in Lan and Zen’s world of forbidden magic and fierce rebellion? You can find Song of Silver, Flame Like Night by Amélie Wen Zhao on Amazon or at your favorite book store.
Loved “Song of Silver, Flame Like Night”? You’ll Be Enchanted by These Next!
If Amélie Wen Zhao’s blend of Chinese-inspired fantasy, unique magic, and thrilling rebellion resonated with you, these books will make perfect additions to your reading list:
- “Iron Widow” by Xiran Jay Zhao: For an explosive, action-packed YA fantasy inspired by Chinese history and mythology, featuring a fierce protagonist who reclaims her power, giant mechs, and a polyamorous romance.
- “Daughter of the Moon Goddess” by Sue Lynn Tan: If you crave more breathtaking YA fantasy steeped in Chinese mythology, with a powerful heroine on an epic quest through celestial realms.
- “Jade City” (The Green Bone Saga) by Fonda Lee: For an incredible urban fantasy with a unique magic system (based on jade), complex family dynamics, and thrilling exploration of power, loyalty, and organized crime in an East Asian-inspired city.
- “Descendant of the Crane” by Joan He: If you’re looking for a Chinese-inspired YA fantasy mystery with political intrigue, prophecy, and a compelling princess protagonist uncovering dark secrets.
