This was everything I wanted it to be.

Heir
By Sabaa Tahir
4.5⭐️

In my head Ember In the Ashes is a 5⭐️ series. It has stuck out to me in a genre I love where I continuously think about it and recommend it to others in front of many other loved series.

I was excited and a little nervous for Heir and I cannot believe I was selected for this ARC. Turns out I had nothing to be nervous about, Sabaa did what she does. She created a cast of characters I became easily endeared to. Developed an intriguing plot that had me devouring this every chance I got. And of course left me on a cliffhanger that has me dying for book 2.

Now the big question, Do I need to read the Ember quartet first? Yes and no. Do I think the experience will be richer if you go in knowing the OG cast, absolutely. But while they play a part in the book you can absolutely still understand everything that happens in Heir without the background and the new characters are the focus. You can understand the world without knowing the history, but the world has a rich history in Ember that will help you understand how it got to where it is in Heir.

And also you just NEED to read The Ember Quartet, so also yes.

Also if you love maps, Sabaa has a preorder map gift that you still have time to take advantage of before pub day on Tuesday.

Thank you to @penguinteen @sabaatahir and @netgalley for giving me the chance to dive into this amazing follow up.

I don’t read as many fantasy books as I used to even though I still love them. When I heard about this book I was so excited. If you know me, you know I love the Ember Quartet, it is my favorite series ever. Sabaa Tahir did not disappoint with this book and I can’t wait to read the next one. 

This book takes place 20 years after the events of A Sky Beyond the Storm. There are three main characters. We have Quil, Helene’s nephew and the prince, Sirsha, a tracker with magic and Aiz, an orphan with a need for revenge. Their stories all end up intertwining in an interesting way.  

Right away, the book hooks the reader. There is a bit of a mystery because something is about to happen but the reader doesn’t know what. You have to keep reading to figure it out. Sometimes books take a while to get to the point and it is just setting up the story and setting, especially in fantasy books. However, in this book, the story starts moving from the first chapter. Sabaa Tahir is amazing at setting the scene with detail without it getting boring. There are multiple povs throughout the book, most prominent being the three main characters. The chapters go from one POV to another, leaving the reader in suspense. There were times where I felt the chapter that followed a suspenseful chapter was boring but that wasn’t often. 

Sabaa Tahir has a way of writing her characters in a way that the readers feel connected to them or hate them passionately. I always have strong feelings towards her characters. I love that we saw some of the characters from the Ember Quartet as well as new ones. I also love the relationships in this book. I loved the romantic and platonic relationships. I love the close bonds that the characters have with each other. While nothing beats Laia and Elias for me, I still loved the couple in this book. 

One thing I loved about the Ember Quartet was the beautiful writing. This book has that same beautiful writing. It made me cry and feel sad, scared, and relieved. This truly is a roller coaster of a book. This book is so chaotic and confusing, but in a good way. I found myself gasping out loud every couple of chapters after a new discovery. I will say, be prepared to cry. Have a box of tissues with you. I lost track of the amount of times my eyes teared up. If you read An Ember in the Ashes and loved it, read this. If you haven’t, go read that series first and then read this book. It is not needed to read this book but the Ember Quartet is worth reading.

I never knew where this book was going and every time I thought I did, I was wrong. I can’t wait for the next book and will be counting down the months until it comes out because that was a shocking ending. Sabaa Tahir has a way of writing that always makes me want to keep reading even when it breaks my heart. The story this book tells is a heartbreaking and impactful story that I think everyone should read.

Thank you Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This was a wonderfully put together story! It had me hooked within a few chapters and I really felt invested in every character’s journey. There was banter, there was romance, there was mystery! And the ending has left me needing more! I can’t wait to continue this journey. I have a good feeling about this series.

4.5 stars
I LOVED this book. Sabaa Tahir knows how to write a book that captivates you from beginning to end. She will always be an instant buy author for me.
I do recommend reading her other series (An Ember in the Ashes) before this. I did find it would’ve helped me during certain parts such as the world building, backstories and character development.

“Heir” (available on October 1st) is set in the same world as Sabaa Tahir’s highly popular four book YA fantasy series, “An Ember in the Ashes.” Since readers are still in the same world, and a few of the main characters from that series are integral to the plot, “Heir” can feel like it’s simply the fifth book in the series.

Could you start with “Heir” and be able to understand what is going on and also love the characters? Absolutely YES.

Would you be spoiled for surprises and outcomes if you jump into "Heir” knowing you might want to read Tahir’s previous books set in this world? Absolutely YES.

If however, you don’t want to commit to reading the [now] five books of the entire series and just want to start with “Heir,” it would be a worthwhile decision. I enjoyed “Heir” immensely and could not put it down.

Just note that “Heir” is not a stand alone novel as it ends on a cliffhanger for what appears to be planned as a duology (which could turn into another huge series, thought, right?).

More details here: www.wilsonhillworks.com/reviews/heir

Content Warnings:
General gore
Violence against children
Pedicide.
Colonization
War
Genocide
Familial abuse
Mild spice

Thank you to Sabaa Tahir, Putnam Books for Young Readers, and Neutrally for the advanced reader copy.

Heir is an exciting, action-packed, can't-put-down first book in a new epic fantasy series by Sabaa Tahir. Heir is easily one of the best, if not THE best, book I've read in 2024.

Aiz is an orphan who once believed she was destined to be a pilot; however, she now cleans the airfields and watches as others live out her dreams. When one reckless decision lands her in the land's most horrific jail, she needs to devise a plan not only to escape but also to carve a better future for her people. Sirsha is a magical tracker who was disowned by her family and community. She now survives by taking odd jobs and moving from place to place. When she is hired by an unusual stranger to track a terrifying murderer, she believes the job will be an easy pay day. Unfortunately, this murderer not only is unnatural but also is the most dangerous creature Sirsha has ever seen. Finally, Quil is the heir to the empire. While not exactly thrilled to be next in line to rule, he still wants what is best for his people. He is devastated when a foreign people attack the empire and he is forced to run. Now, in order to gain control of his land again, Quil must seek answers about his past, his family, and this evil power that is terrorizing his people.

First, the world building in Heir is amazing! Second, Sabaa Tahir is an epic storyteller. Third, the characters are all complex and extremely well-developed. I laughed, I cried, I yelled - I had all the emotions throughout this book! The story is told through the three main characters' POVs. There is definitely a huge twist that I absolutely did not see coming. I was shocked and had to reread a few chapters to believe it. It was great writing! I am completely obsessed with this book and cannot wait for the next in the series. Easy five stars!!!

AHHHH I LOVED THIS BOOK!!! I’m already itching for book 2 I NEED to know what happens next. The plot in this was fantastic - if you liked the Daevabad trilogy or Throne of Glass, you’d love this. I feel so connected to all of the characters. The way the story is told is so unique & really has you in the dark for plot twists & grand reveals. The romance subplot!!!!! DELICIOUS. OH MY GOD. The dialogue between the two?? I could scream about it AH. This was just so well done. I need more like I need air.

Thank you SO MUCH Penguin Teen Canada for the ARC, I absolutely LOVED this book so much!!!

Sabaa Tahir does it again!! I am a fan of her previous works and Heir ABSOLUTELY DELIVERS!!! The world building is richly and seamlessly woven together between the POVs of our protagonists. Tahir’s storytelling is so effective at integrating themes that reflect the current political climate in the world. I felt every emotion imaginable throughout the course of the story and cannot wait until I get my hands on the next book!!!

Thank you again to NetGalley and Penguin Young Readers Group/G. P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers Group for a chance to read and review an advanced copy of this book!

Heir by Sabaa Tahir is a gripping, heart-pounding journey from start to finish. Tahir weaves an intense tale of power, betrayal, and survival that keeps you on the edge of your seat with every twist and revelation. The stakes are higher than ever, and the emotional depth will leave you breathless long after the final page—an unforgettable read that cuts deep!

I really need to do better about thinking twice before starting a series where I'll have to wait a long time before being able to read the next book, because SKIES THAT ENDING!!!! My jaw is still on the floor.

It was so great and nostalgic being back in the world of Helene, Elias, and Laia. Heir takes place 20 years after An Ember in the Ashes. While I haven't really seen it mentioned anywhere that reading the An Ember in the Ashes quartet first is required, I think it would be super beneficial. I read those books when they first published, so it's been a while since I've been fully immersed in this world. I think having it fresh on your mind will help with some of the background regarding world building as well as where Helene, Elias, and Laia are today.

I decided to take my time with this one for 2 reasons: 1. I loved An Ember in the Ashes SO much and was much too excited for this spin off that I didn't want to rush it. And 2, there are a few characters to keep track of here. Sabaa Tahir is such a master storyteller, and I didn't find it hard to keep up with the story lines, but due to the world building, it is not one you'll want to rush through.

I'm so happy for the author and this continuation of such an incredible world that she's built. It was one of my highly anticipated reads for 2024, and it did not disappoint. I cannot recommend this enough!

"When you sacrifice other people's children on the alter of your ambition, it's only a matter of time before you'll be willing to sacrifice your own. That's how evil works, [redacted]."

""For the people" was a blood-soaked shield brandished by tyrants everywhere."

Two quotes that stuck with me the most in a book that has left me haunted. And so so so ready for book two. No book by THE Sabaa Tahir has ever left me unscathed and Heir was truly no exception. The way this woman had me constantly looking over my metaphorical shoulder hoping my faves are okay is something that should be studied. Almost 500 pages of discovering new characters, new adventures, new ways to be hurt but also with the familiar background of a series and a world that reminded me how important books truly are.

Following this second-generation of Sabaa characters who are hunting an enemy both familiar and new, was such a treat. And by treat I mean by like page 100 I was stopping after every chapter to take a calming breath. And the characters! Quil you are such a mix of Elias and Helene it's incredible. Sirsha, you are so strong and stoic but somehow have some of the best one liners ever. Arelia and Sufiyan, the best duo to round out yet another iconic found family. I don't know where I'm going with this but few people can create and cultivate a wonderful found family like Sabaa and she sure showed up in Heir.

But back to those two quotes, and a mention of the synopsis: "the devastating consequences of unchecked greed". If anyone at this point in US exceptionalism believes that any media we consume is created and exists in a vacuum is deluding themselves. Reading about a tyrant who considers the actions of the few reason to punish the many and the corruptive power of greed in between scrolling yet another day of horrifying atrocities being committed for the benefit of an empire is probably what will stick with me the most. When you read Heir (which you must), escape into the story, like every Sabaa book deserves, but do not let yourself gloss over what world Sirsha and Quil and Aiz and Sufiyan are existing in.

Thank you Penguin Teen and Netgalley for my advanced copy.

I've been wanting to read a Sabaa Tahir book for a while, so I was very excited to get the ARC for Heir! I loved the multiple perspectives and the different characters and how their stories fit together. However, I did think it was hard to get into and a little slow/too long at times.

I'm a lifelong reader and fan of all Sabaa Tahir works and anytime i pick up her books i'm nothing short of drawn into her world. I stay there and watching the words play out like a movie. HEIR was the same and again i'm not happy it's ended because i have to wait for book 2 lol. This book was absolutely breathtaking...i'm so happy my hardcopy will be arriving tomorrow as well as the audiobook, yayyyy. I can't wait to delve back into HEIR again for an immersive read. Aiz, Sirsha, and Quil were the 3 main characters and boy were they xters to follow and root for. We start off with some worldbuilding to set the scene and then it takes off. Action-packed, edge of your seat or bed, clutching your blanket wondering what would happen next...there was one beginning scene in the first chapter that when it happened, i was like yep, i'm here to get thrilled. The chatter (a lot of the dialogue gave me pause to think 'a message within a story'), plot, violenceee, magic, amazing pace, tensionnnn, Sabaa's awesome humor (IYKYK) and writing style is just muah and beautiful, rich, seamless worldbuilding left the reader (me) just flat out needing more. We go through a lot of emotions with all 3 characters. Sirsha was my girl, but no i shall not pick a favorite because they all were..Quil was a reluctant heir and gosh his internalization i lovedddd. I'm really trying not to be spoilery. You just need to read this gem, and guess what you will meet fav characters from AEITA (i literally squealed when they came on the page lol). I'm happy there's a book 2 and i can't waitttttttttttttttt. To the publisher, would be nice if you made this a trilogy so we don't have only 2 books. I already know i want 3 or more lol. Thanks Netgalley for the arc, much appreciated.

Sabaa Tahir is a true master of fantasy storytelling, and Heir brilliantly expands upon her beloved Ember in the Ashes quartet. This compelling sequel invites readers back into a world that feels both familiar and refreshingly new, filled with intricate secrets and complex political landscapes.

Set 20 years after the events of the original series, Heir introduces a new cast of characters grappling with their own profound dilemmas, each of which propels them into a war-torn landscape. Tahir captures the depths of longing, grief, and vengeance with a haunting authenticity, as if she’s experienced every emotion known to humanity. Each character is thoughtfully developed, given the space to shine and evolve in their unique struggles.

The magic and world-building in Heir are just as stunning as in her previous works. Returning to this rich universe feels like coming home, yet Tahir expertly unfolds new layers, offering readers a wealth of fresh discoveries. This continuation not only honors its predecessors but also enriches the entire saga, leaving us hungry for more.

I hadn't realized this was connected to an Ember in the Ashes when I first started this book. I was also taken aback by the different timelines.

Aiz's story was heartbreaking. I'm not sure how to feel about her character. She and her people were treated unfairly for so long, and then she was corrupted by "Mother Div" who is a horrifying creature and even after knowing what she was she continued to draw power from her.

I liked Sirsha a lot. Her sister is such a horrible person. I like the enemies-to-lovers thing she and Quil had. That ending, though!

I liked Quil as well. I can understand his hesitance to rule after knowing who his father was. But, he is far from his father.

I'm curious to see how this all ends.

-screams in excitement- I was absolutely honored to be approved for the arc of this book. The story is beautifully written and returns ro a world I loved but could be read separately if you wanted. There are twists and turns and characters who are just trying to do what they think is best. I missed laia and Elias and am glad to meet their children within this story.

Can I give this book 10 stars??

First things first, you MUST read the An Ember in the Ashes series before reading Heir. Heir takes place about 20 years after the end of A Sky Beyond the Storm and includes characters from that series, as well as information that will spoil the Ember series :)

One of the main things I loved about this book was the mix of characters and storylines from both An Ember in the Ashes and Heir. While Heir is a new storyline with a large cast of new characters, it also features some of our OG favorites from Ember. It really was a perfect mix of past and present.

As with all of this authors books, prepare to audibly gasp and get your heart ripped out at least once or twice (though this book was not as rough as the Ember series…it is however a duology so maybe I shouldn’t speak too soon)

There was literally nothing I didn’t enjoy about this book. The characters, the story, the twists, the callbacks to the Ember series…everything about it was great. My only complaint is it ends on a cliffhanger and now I have to wait for book 2 😭

I want to thank Penguin Group/Penguin Young Readers Group and NetGalley for providing me with an egalley of this book to read and give my honest feedback. The opinions expressed here are my own.
Just as some background, I have not read Tahir before. I know this series is somehow connected to An Ember In the Ashes and I'm not sure if I should have read that series first, but I was able to understand this book so I am not sure it's necessary. But I did see it recommended.
I'll start by saying wow, Tahir can write. I don't read a ton of YA these days so if I do I want something that will draw me in and Tahir did that immediately. I was super curious and invested in the story trying to figure out who each of the three POVs were. Yes, THREE POVs, though later in the book Tahir does incorporate two more! I was worried it would be confusing but it was not. And I can only assume introducing the other two POVs will be integral in the next book of this series.
Tahir builds a fabulous world. A world full of magic and political intrigue as well and romance. I loved the culture the author created. It was very rich and even included language which supported it. Tahir holds nothing back and often keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout the book. She drives the story with a fantastic mix of plot and character development. I often thought of Bardugo's Six of Crows series when I was reading this one (and Bardugo is a favorite author of mine!). There is a great deal of layering in this world with things building on top of each other until finally they come together and it all makes complete sense.
All three main characters, Sirsha, Aiz, and Quil were uniquely done and very well developed. I understood each of their motivations and who they were in relation to the politics surrounding them. Each of their stories was important to what was happening around them and to them. I related to all three, as well. The prince who doesn't want to assume his position. The girl who stole his heart but had an agenda all his own. And the other girl who just wants to save her found family. The rotation of their POVs keeps the story moving and kept me wanting to turn the pages to know more. Each character faces their own demons and challenges and grows from this.
he one thing I will complain about was the length or the chapters. I prefer shorter chapters for the most part so I don't feel bogged down.
Overall I really enjoyed this one and I can't wait to see what happens in the next book with that bit of a cliffhanger ending.

I LOVE Sabaa Tahir. I really, really do. And I love this world. Unfortunately, this spin off wasn’t my favorite though. I the first half really dragged and I wasn’t very invested in any of the characters. I liked the twisty ending but it didn’t hit as well just because I was kind of ready for it to be over. It was just very long. Sabaa is still a queen though and I’ll read anything she writes!

This book is quite simply incredible. Tahir deserves all the praise. It’s truly remarkable to tell readers that an event will happen, so they’re fully prepared and then still shred their heart to pieces when said event occurs. It’s one thing to know but it’s a whole other to Know. I’m still reeling from it. This book also gives peek Harvey Dent energy with either dying a hero or living long enough to see yourself become the villain. IYKYK. I am obsessed with how Tahir structured the plot of this book with weaving the different POVs together. That decision alone lead to wild revelations. This book is full of action, political machinations, and mind blowing plot twists. I was so invested in Quil and Sirsha’s POVs mainly because of the chemistry between them. They had great banter as well which kept me interested. I enjoyed Aiz’s POV as well, but I wasn’t as invested as I was with Sirsha and Quil. It was also great getting to see beloved characters from the An Ember in the Ashes series pop up. I loved that Elias and Helene were still formidable warriors. However, I don’t believe you need to read that series to understand this book. I also found the chaos storyteller element fascinating and hope we learn more in the next book. With the way Heir ended, I’m fully preparing for utter devastation in book 2, and I can’t wait to read it. I can’t recommend this book enough.