A lawless wilderness. A polished court. Individual fates, each on a quest to expose a system of corruption.
The desolate canyons of Alcoro—and the people desperate enough to hide there—couldn’t be more different from the opulent glass palace and lush forests of Moquoia. But the harsh desert and gleaming court are linked through their past, present, and future: a history of abductions in the desert to power Moquoia’s quarries and factories, and a bleak, inhumane future built on the sweat and sacrifice of these bond laborers.
But events unfolding in the present could change everything. In the desert, outlaw Lark—known to most as the Sunshield Bandit—has built a name for herself attacking slavers’ wagons and freeing the captives inside. But while she shakes the foundation of Moquoia’s stratified society, she also has to fight to protect her rescuees—and herself—from the unforgiving world around them.
In the Moquoian court, young ambassador Veran hopes to finally make his mark by dismantling the unjust labor system, if he can navigate the strict hierarchy and inexplicable hostility of the prince.
And caught in the middle of it all, Tamsin is trapped within four walls, the epicenter of a secret political coup to overthrow the Moquoian monarchy and perpetuate the age-old system of injustice.
Separated by seas of trees and sand, the outlaw, the diplomat, and the prisoner are more connected than anyone realizes. Their personal fates might just tip the balance of power in the Eastern World—if that very power doesn’t destroy them first.
Industry Reviews
"Clever, thrilling, and full of heart, this is epic fantasy done right." -- Publishers Weekly (starred review)
"Filled with unforgettable characters that you'll truly care about, SUNSHIELD is fantastic! Emily B. Martin expertly weaves together multiple narratives with precision, passion, and excellence to create a riveting tale that will stick with you long after you finish reading. I loved it!" -- Sarah Beth Durst, award-winning author of RACE THE SANDS
"An exciting take on the fantasy genre with its mix of Wild West and a tempered glass court. The three main characters seamlessly weave together a diverse tale of deceit, highway robbery, and political machinations. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did." -- Jeff Wheeler, Wall Street Journal bestselling author of the Harbinger, Kingfountain, and Muirwood series.
"SUNSHIELD is an adventure story with credible and heroic characters you want to cheer for. An excellent read." -- Luanne G. Smith, author of The Vine Witch
"SUNSHIELD by Emily B. Martin is a richly imagined, beautifully textured fantasy that will leave you clamoring for the sequel. I couldn't put it down!" -- Elle Katharine White, author of Heartstone
"SUNSHIELD expands Emily B. Martin's Woodwalker series into a novel filled with adventure, political coups, and more importantly, characters the reader will grow to love and cheer. Nuanced and gripping, the story bolts from the first page and doesn't let go. It's a first-rate fantasy and a sublime reflection of our modern world. Don't miss it!" -- T. Frohock, author of Carved from Stone and Dream
