Kate J. Armstrong

In a dazzling new fantasy world full of whispered secrets and political intrigue, the magic of women is outlawed but four girls with unusual powers have the ability to change it all. The Nightbirds are Simta's best kept secret. Teenage girls from the Great Houses with magic coursing through their veins, the Nightbirds have the unique ability to gift their magic to others with a kiss. Magic--especially the magic of women--is outlawed and the city's religious sects would see them burned if discovered. But protected by the Great Houses, the Nightbirds are safe, well-guarded treasures. As this Season's Nightbirds, Matilde, Aesa, and Sayer spend their nights bestowing their unique brands of magic to well-paying clients. Once their Season is through, they're each meant to marry a Great House lord and become mothers to the next generation of Nightbirds before their powers fade away. But as these Nightbirds find themselves at the heart of a political scheme that threatens their very lives, their future becomes uncertain. When they discover that there are other girls like them and that their magic is far more than they were ever told, they see the carefully crafted Nightbird system for what it is: a gilded cage. Now they must make a choice--to remain kept birds or take control, remaking the city that dared to clip their wings.

Nightbirds

Courtney Passio

After all, she is not a star made for if only wishes. She’s the kind of star that burns. 

But this place is full of sharks, and she is a minnow. She feels certain it will swallow her whole. 

Forbidden fruit is so much sweeter than the rest. 

The remains of Matilde’s mask slip away, letting her hope shine through. 

But tonight, she isn’t just a pretty vessel. She is poison in the guise of something sweet. 

Shining brightly only makes people want to steal your glow.

Nightbirds quotes

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