An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir (2015)

In a brutal empire inspired by ancient Rome, a scholar risks everything to save her brother while a soldier questions his duty to the regime. Tahir’s world is fierce and unflinching, full of love, betrayal, and rebellion. The story burns with emotional intensity, making every victory feel earned and every loss unforgettable. It’s fantasy that hits like a war drum.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½