SHORTLISTED: 2026 Prime Minister's Literary Awards, Young Adult Literature

OUR RESISTANCE IS POWER

Ma's tears wet my neck as I backed into our hut. I slumped into Pa's chair. His smell curled around me. I breathed him in as my tears fell and anger bubbled under my skin. I was to be a Blood Moon Bride.

Rehya is a hunter with uncanny magical abilities - and magic has long been outlawed in Mennama Valley.

Every winter, on the night of the Blood Moon, young women enter forced marriages for the valley's advancement and prosperity. But this year Governor Kyra has decreed that girls of just fifteen must become Blood Moon Brides, making Rehya eligible.¿

When her Pa dies, Rehya's plans of escape evaporate and she is paraded in front of suitors on Show Day. And when she is chosen to be a bride, she lashes out.

As punishment, she is sent to the Nest. There Rehya must decide: should she submit to the life of a Blood Moon Bride, or rebel - and risk everything to fight for justice?

A powerful and fierce YA fantasy novel by the award-winning author of Living on Hope Street.

'A richly realised and provocative fantasy, Blood Moon Bride shows that even in the midst of great hardship, magic can find a way.' - C.S. Pacat, New York Times Bestselling author of DARK RISE

'Richly folkloric and tragically timely, Blood Moon Bride is a visceral tale of fierce women and bright, raging hope, drenched with blood and the light of stars.' - Lili Wilkinson, author of A HUNGER OF THORNS and DEEP IS THE FEN

'I read Blood Moon Bride in one breathless sitting. The story and writing were compelling. I trembled in dread with Rehya, I ran and fought with her. Her struggle was mine and so was her triumph.' - Isobelle Carmody, author of THE OBERNEWTYN CHRONICLES and COMES THE NIGHT