“Alongi’s debut brilliantly raises the profile of the vibrant inner world of a neurodivergent character while never losing sight of the disastrous effects of religious terrorism. This combination makes for a story impossible to put down.” Booklist
Description
In this luminous sci-fi debut, a nonverbal autistic woman refuses to crumble as she stands against a dogmatic society clinging to a centuries-long conflict built on lies.
Citadel is the only human city on the alien planet Edalide, ruled by the biweekly tides that bring both deadly danger and much-needed resources. But the drowning waters, constant threat of starvation, and eternal cold aren’t the most dangerous challenge. For the Flooded Forest is ruled by demons: monsters from Hell sent by their vengeful god as penance for their ancestors’ rebellion. To save their souls and return to their former glory, Citadel must kill every single one.
Or so they believe.
Olivia lost her lover to the demons almost a year ago. But during a scientific expedition, a chance encounter reveals that the demons are sentient—a startling discovery that would get Olivia executed if she exposed it.
Driven by the burning need for answers, Olivia embarks on a dangerous journey into the Forest. There, she must face alien monsters, zealous warriors, and the demons of her own past. But change comes slowly, and always with a price…
Praise
“Alongi’s debut brilliantly raises the profile of the vibrant inner world of a neurodivergent character while never losing sight of the disastrous effects of religious terrorism. This combination makes for a story impossible to put down.” Booklist
“Alongi’s entertaining debut matches familiar SF tropes with strong characters and fascinating worldbuilding…Readers who grew up on Cressida Cowell and Patricia C. Wrede will be especially delighted.” Publishers Weekly
“Refreshing…Citadel is a worthy addition to the alien-world canon, but also a glorious primer on forming alliances to resist tyranny.” Charlie Jane Anders, internationally bestselling author, for the Washington Post
Details
| Language | English |
|---|---|
| Release Day | Jun 19, 2023 |
| Release Date | June 20, 2023 |
| Release Date Machine | 1687219200 |
| Imprint | Blackstone Publishing |
| Provider | Blackstone Publishing |
| Categories | Science Fiction & Fantasy |
Author Bio
C. M. Alongi graduated from Hamline University with a double bachelor’s in history and social justice. She lives in an apartment in the Twin Cities area where she protects her furniture from her roommates’ two evil cats. Citadel is her first full-length novel. She has also written an epic fantasy novella series called the Blackwing Series.
Narrator Bio
Emily Lawrence, an actor and writer, is passionate about bringing stories to life. Her greatest strength as a performer is her ability to bring herself to the role, creating a wide range of emotionally resonant performances that leap off the page, stage, or screen. Her favorite characters are complicated, conflicted, and still searching for their inner truths. She has narrated more than 425 audiobooks, many of which were USA Today or New York Times bestsellers, and has also worked in film, television, and theater. Born and raised in New York, she moved to Los Angeles shortly after receiving her BFA in drama from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. She also lived in London while studying at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. Her greatest loves are acting and reading, so narrating audiobooks is a dream come true. Her other passions include traveling, LARPing, aerial circus, and chocolate.
Overview
In this luminous sci-fi debut, a nonverbal autistic woman refuses to crumble as she stands against a dogmatic society clinging to a centuries-long conflict built on lies.
Citadel is the only human city on the alien planet Edalide, ruled by the biweekly tides that bring both deadly danger and much-needed resources. But the drowning waters, constant threat of starvation, and eternal cold aren’t the most dangerous challenge. For the Flooded Forest is ruled by demons: monsters from Hell sent by their vengeful god as penance for their ancestors’ rebellion. To save their souls and return to their former glory, Citadel must kill every single one.
Or so they believe.
Olivia lost her lover to the demons almost a year ago. But during a scientific expedition, a chance encounter reveals that the demons are sentient—a startling discovery that would get Olivia executed if she exposed it.
Driven by the burning need for answers, Olivia embarks on a dangerous journey into the Forest. There, she must face alien monsters, zealous warriors, and the demons of her own past. But change comes slowly, and always with a price…