A chosen-one YA fantasy debut novel inspired by Asian culture with a richly developed world—perfect for fans of Elizabeth Lim, Amélie Wen Zhao, and Sue Lynn Tan.

In a world divided between respectable citizens and Omens—humans who can transform into monsters—Sozo is one of the cursed.

Abandoned by her parents when her Omen stain appeared, Sozo survives the streets under the guidance of Esp, a shadowy mentor. But Sozo hides a secret: she can conceal her stain, a rare talent that Esp sees as the key to infiltrating the Temple of Celestial Ichor and competing in the Decade Race of Stars.

The race is deadly, but the prize is irresistible—a single wish for anything. Esp dreams of using it to reshape the world, and Sozo convinces herself the risk is worth it. With a star-powered flying scooter called an anchor, Sozo becomes a fierce contender, but keeping her stain hidden—and her monstrous side in check—is harder with every challenge.

As Sozo fights to survive the race, doubts creep in. Should she claim the wish for herself to change life for Omens? Doing so would mean betraying Esp, who won’t let her go without a fight.

With monsters lurking inside and out, Sozo must decide whose future she’s fighting for—and if she’s willing to pay the price.