Flesh and Fire

Nebula Award nominee 2009.

In the tradition of bestselling fantasists like Naomi Novik and Guy Gavriel Kay, the first in a unique and exciting new trilogy about a world in which magic derives from the process of wine-making.

Fourteen centuries ago, all power was held by the prince-mages, who alone could craft the spellmaking wines. But the people revolted against their harsh rule and were saved by a demigod called Sin-Washer, who shattered the prince-mages’ steady hold. Now, princelings still rule, but it is the Vinearts who hold the secret of making spellwines, and the power of magic.

Jerzy, a young slave, has just begun his unexpected apprenticeship to become a Vineart when his master uncovers the first stirrings of a plot to finish the work Sin-Washer began — and destroy the remains of the Vine. Only his master believes the magnitude and danger of this plot. And only Jerzy has the ability to stop it, before the Vinearts disappear forever...

Featuring outstanding characters, evocative writing, and fascinating winemaking detail, this brilliantly imaginative new series will captivate both mainstream and fantasy readers everywhere.