The Hyacinth Labyrinth

Two teens from different worlds and with conflicting motives set out on a perilous adventure across the Fae realm in this lighthearted sapphic romantasy from Pacton (The Absinthe Underground). Unlike her older half sisters, High Fae Princess Hyacinth Bramblefen did not develop magic on her 17th birthday, but she conceals her lack of magical ability by wearing a pair of cumbersome fake wings and carrying an inventory of enchanted items. Accompanied by her stablehand friend Chloe Wreckersfind, 18, Hyacinth steals away from the palace to uncover the whereabouts of and track down her father, who has been missing for 15 years. The girls’ search points them toward the Labyrinth, a distant and treacherous magical library. Unbeknownst to Hyacinth, however, Chloe is a disguised human trapped in the Fae realm, and the Labyrinth’s rumored portals to other worlds could be her ticket home. As they confront myriad trials along their quest, Hyacinth and Chloe must rely on each other and navigate their mutual attraction, even as Chloe agonizes over potentially leaving the Fae realm—and Hyacinth—behind forever. Though danger is always around the corner, the stakes are never too high, making for a cozy jaunt enlivened with whimsical Fae world details and a hint of beguiling darkness. Hyacinth has pale purple skin; Chloe reads as white. Ages 14–up. Agent: Kate Testerman, KT Literary. (June)