Gameboard of the Gods

Book excerpt: Gameboard of the Gods is the first thrilling instalment in the Age of X series from New York Times bestselling author, Richelle Mead In a futuristic world nearly destroyed by religious extremists, Justin March lives in exile. But Justin is given a second chance when Mae Koskinen comes to bring him back to the Republic of United North America. Raised in an aristocratic caste, Mae is now a member of the military's most elite and terrifying tier, a soldier with enhanced reflexes and skills. Justin and Mae are assigned to work together to solve a string of ritualistic murders and soon realize that their discoveries have exposed them to terrible danger. As their investigation races forward, unknown enemies and powers greater than they can imagine are gathering in the shadows, ready to reclaim the world in which humans are merely game pieces on their board. The Age of X is a brand new fantasy series containing all the mythological intrigue and relentless action of the bestselling Vampire Academy and Bloodlines YA series, and is sure to delight fans of Chloe Neill and Jim Butcher. Praise for Richelle Mead: 'The book is fast-paced and suspenseful' Booklist 'An engaging read, with an unusually tangible, believable, living story world, featuring a protagonist of unexpected depth and sympathy' Jim Butcher (on Succubus Blues) Richelle Mead, the New York Times bestselling author of Vampire Academy, lives in Seattle, Washington with her husband and baby. Gameboard of the Gods is the first in the Age of X series and Richelle's first adult novel.