She felt their eyes, all those executioners... Enter a world where, watched by millions, prisoners fight like gladiators for the ultimate prize: their freedom. Thurwar is nearing the end of her time on the circuit, free in just a few matches, a fact she carries as heavily as her lethal hammer. As she prepares for her final encounters, as protestors gather at the gates, and as the programme's corporate owners stack the odds against her - will the price be simply too high? A FINANCIAL TIMES BEST BOOK OF 2023 'A pure fire page turner' MAX PORTER 'Electrifying' GEORGE SAUNDERS READERS CAN'T STOP TALKING ABOUT THE BOOK OF 2023: 'I've waited my whole life for a sapphic Hunger Games!' 'An explosive page-turner that's also a chilling social commentary.' 'This novel is alive and glorious. Give it all the awards.' 'Had me cheering and weeping, unable to tear my eyes from the page.' 'A masterpiece that packs a mighty punch.'