[A] dazzling fantasy debut that is equal parts thrilling and moving. Roanne Lau has crafted a wonderfully complex world filled with political intrigue and gladiator-style adventure that will leave you at the edge of your seat. --Amber Chen, author of Of Jade and Dragons [A] world so vibrant and rich with Southeast Asian culture, it leaps off the page. With its complex political rivalries, underworld factions, and vicious death games, Setgad is a city that will swallow you whole without blinking. --Gabriella Buba, author of Saints of Storm and Sorrow The Witcher meets Squid Game in this Malaysian Chinese-inspired epic fantasy novel where a debt-ridden slumdog joins an illegal monster-fighting arena for some fast coin, but quickly learns the most dangerous beasts are outside the ring Lythlet and her only friend Desil are shackled to a life of debt and poverty that she fears they will never escape. Desperate for money, they sign up as conquessors: arena combatants who fight sun-cursed beasts in the seedy underworld of the city. Match-master Dothilos is initially enamored of Desils brawling reputation, but after seeing Lythlet lead the pair to triumph with her quick cunning, he takes her under his wing, scorning Desil. Ambition takes root in Lythlets heart as a life of fame and wealth unfolds in her imagination. But Lythlet isnt the only one out for coin and glory, and she soon finds herself playing an entirely different game--a game of politics and deception. As the cost of her ambition grows, she will have to decide if sacrificing her honor, and only friendship, is worth the chance to shape her own fortune. A whirlwind of blood-pounding battles as characters grapple with their choices in the face of wealth and financial security, The Serpent Called Mercys heart is the underlying, steadfast friendship between its protagonists. A show-stopping debut that dazzles even as it pulls at your heartstrings. Featuring breathtaking battles, intricate lore, and a remarkable friendship as its beating heart...a thrilling spectacle from beginning to end. I loved this book. --Chelsea Abdullah, author of The Stardust Thief Roanne Lau immerses you into a remarkably vivid world with a gritty underworld that raises the stakes--and your blood pressure. Full of monsters and mayhem, but most importantly, a cast of characters that you cant help but love. An astounding debut. --Saara El-Arifi, internationally bestselling author of Faebound The Witcher meets Squid Gam