The Scattered Pearls Belt is a string of habitats on the edge of a huge galactic empire—a glittering, decadent society rife with corruption. Now, one of its victims—Quỳnh, a scholar betrayed and left for dead—has come back for her revenge, under the guise of the glamorous and enigmatic Alchemist of Streams and Hills. Quỳnh’s path intersects that of Minh, the daughter of one of her oldest enemies, who chafes at her own lack of freedom; and of Hoà, a near-destitute engineer who poses a threat to all Quỳnh’s careful plans. Quỳnh finds herself inexorably attracted to Hoà, even as her plans upend the fragile political equilibrium of the Belt. Falling in love wasn’t part of Quỳnh’s plans; but will she be able to grasp this second chance at happiness, or will she cling on to a revenge that may well consume her whole? A poignant, heartwarming romantic space opera about love, revenge and the weight of the past. Praise for Aliette de Bodard: “Intricate and emotional... a touching sci-fi romance that will delight fans and new readers alike” — Publishers Weekly (Starred Review) “It took my breath away!” —Stephanie Burgis “So romantic I may simply perish” —Tasha Suri “Really fresh” —Katee Robert “Confident, sexy and touching” —Max Gladstone “Dazzling” —Everina Maxwell “Swoon-worthy” —Susan, Smart Bitches, Trashy Books “A sumptuous, romantic experience” —The Financial Times “Fizzingly inventive” —Alastair Reynolds “A treasure” —Gareth L Powell