Sabaa Tahir’s novel *Empire*, the conclusion to her new YA romantasy duology, was released on 22 September. Set 20 years after *An Ember in the Ashes*, it follows returning characters amid collapsing empires, powerful magic, betrayal and world-threatening conflict, making it a significant continuation of Tahir’s bestselling fantasy universe.

An exclusive audiobook excerpt focuses on ten-year-old Ruh, whose heart is devoured by the ancient evil Mother Div before he enters the afterlife. His grandmother helps restore him to life, preparing him to seek vengeance and influence the wider struggle, while the main story also follows crown prince Quil Farrar, Empress Helene and Sirsha as they confront war, personal loss and political upheaval.