The Nezel are refugee servants, toiling in a desert land where their culture is barely tolerated. Two friends, prowling through secret tunnels, uncover a villainous plot that places the Nezel in jeopardy. Almond and Quartz hatch a desperate plan to aid Finch, rightful heir to the throne. Even with the help of unexpected allies, their heroic efforts may not be enough-and the Time of Naming cannot be delayed. All adolescents must choose a gender and a new name for adulthood but Almond, intensely private, struggles to make this choice. Almond, Quartz, and Finch strive to claim their true selves and protect their people in perilous times.
"Lisa Bunker has written a compelling fantasy with important themes for all, especially the LGBTQ+ community. The writing is beautiful and cleverly keeps readers aware of the main theme with non-gendered pronouns used throughout. This book, along with the earlier stellar novel, Zenobia July, firmly places Bunker as a premier writer for the LGBTQ+ community." - San Francisco Book Review
"A well-told and exciting YA fantasy, both gender-affirming and a realistic look at friends coming of age in turbulent times." - The Book Shoppe
"The perfect balance of action and intrigue, along with a groundbreaking exploration of gender identity." - A.J. Sass, author of Ellen Outside the Lines