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A Torch Against the Night

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2016

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Book Brief

Sabaa Tahir

A Torch Against the Night

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2016
Book Details
Pages

452

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

Romance

Action & Adventure
Setting

Martial Empire • Medieval Fantasy World

Theme
Emotions/Behavior: Courage

Hate & Anger

Race
Publication Year

2016

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL670L

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Super Short Summary

In A Torch Against the Night by Sabaa Tahir, former slave Laia and defector soldier Elias traverse hostile lands and evade capture in their mission to rescue Laia's brother, Darin, from the Empire’s most formidable prison. Along the way, they face numerous dangers, betrayals, and personal struggles, while Elias battles a fatal poison. Their journey is shadowed by the relentless pursuit of Helene, Elias’s former friend now aligned with the Empire.

Suspenseful

Dark

Emotional

Mysterious

Adventurous

Reviews & Readership

4.4

184,330 ratings

84%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Sabaa Tahir's A Torch Against the Night captivates with fast-paced action, complex characters, and compelling world-building. Readers praise the intense emotional drive and plot twists. However, some critique its slower middle section and cliffhanger ending. Overall, it's a strong continuation of the series, showcasing Tahir's growth as a storyteller.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Torch Against the Night?

A reader who would enjoy A Torch Against the Night by Sabaa Tahir is typically a fan of fast-paced fantasy with strong, multidimensional characters and intricate plots. This reader likely appreciates the blend of action, romance, and social themes found in series like Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas or Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard.

4.4

184,330 ratings

84%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

An elite soldier of the Martial Empire grappling with his duties and a desire for personal freedom, marked by his internal conflict and profound compassion.

Starting as a fearful and guilt-ridden girl, she is determined to rescue her brother and evolves into a resourceful and resilient agent of her own fate amidst the Empire's oppression.

A fiercely loyal and powerful warrior who, as the Empire's Blood Shrike, is caught between personal loyalty and her duty to the regime.

The ruthless and ambitious leader at Blackcliff Academy, she is known for her strategic brilliance and chilling lack of empathy, including towards her son, Elias.

An impulsive and volatile ruler, his obsession with power is punctuated by personal insecurities and a brutal approach to maintaining control.

Introduced as a charismatic rebel leader, his true identity is a central twist, revealing a more ancient and complex character vital to the unfolding conflict.

Captured by the Empire, he is a skilled blacksmith whose knowledge and selflessness are pivotal to his sister Laia's quest.

A mysterious and powerful figure in the ghostly Waiting Place, she becomes a significant influence on Elias's path through her cryptic guidance.

The savvy chieftain of Tribe Nur, she provides critical support to Elias and Laia's mission, showcasing political acumen and honor.

Book Details
Pages

452

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

Romance

Action & Adventure
Setting

Martial Empire • Medieval Fantasy World

Theme
Emotions/Behavior: Courage

Hate & Anger

Race
Publication Year

2016

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL670L

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