Day’s YA: HER SHARP EMBRACE

HER SHARP EMBRACE by Kate Koenig
9781250321244
6/9/2026
Wednesday Books
Ages 13-18

E-galley available on Edelweiss and NetGalley

In the dark and glittering city of New Soleil, the Nightshades are feared for their magical abilities and their penchant for enacting revenge on the city’s elite. The dangerous gang is made up of five young women, each with their own special ability, or “charism.” Lennon is the leader of the group, and has physical strength unmatched by anyone. Jolie is a truth-wringer and Lennon’s right-hand. Mei can create illusions that could trick even the most keen observer. Theo has the ability to persuade anyone to do anything she wants. And Noa, the most skilled alchemist in New Soleil, left her cushy life as a baron’s daughter to join the Nightshades after falling in love with Lennon. These five girls are more than friends and fellow gang members—they are family. So when their safehouse is broken into and one of the Nightshades is murdered, the remaining members are completely devastated and must figure out who is targeting them and why before they all become suspects themselves. But New Soleil is a city that runs on secrets, and each of the Nightshades has their own that they will do anything to keep hidden.

If you or your patrons are looking for a book featuring strong, powerful female characters, this debut should be your next read. The Nightshades are not to be messed with, and I felt like I was a member of the group as I was immersed into their dangerous, corruption-fighting escapades. The dynamics in their found family are layered and complex. There’s romance, jealousy, devotion, and betrayal, and we get each members’ unique perspective as the chapters switch between POVs. And the New Orleans-inspired world they live in comes alive on the page—the streets are teeming with glittering magic and dark intrigue, and secrets hide around every corner. 

The ending of this duology-opener had me absolutely transfixed. I thought I had an idea how things would wrap up, but the plot twists made me question everything. I raced through the last few chapters, desperate to discover the truth, and am eagerly awaiting the next book. HER SHARP EMBRACE is a twisty murder mystery and a dramatic queer romance wrapped up in an enchanting fantasy, and is perfect for anyone who enjoyed HEARTLESS HUNTER by Kristen Ciccarelli, THE GILDED ONES by Namina Forna, or OUR INFINITE FATES by Laura Steven.

“This story, which is a good hybrid of mystery and queer romance, stands out with its crew of femme fatales and sets the stage for a series full of magical intrigue.”
—School Library Journal

Happy reading!
<3 Emily

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