The Scorpion and the Night Blossom

The Three Realms, Book 1

By: Amélie Wen Zhao

Narrated by: Annie Q

A NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • In a world at war with demons, one girl will face the ultimate test when she is forced to enter into an ancient, deadly competition for the chance to save her mother's soul… before she loses her forever. From the author of Song of Silver, Flame Like Night comes the beginning of a dark and opulent fantasy duology, perfect for fans of Throne of Glass.

Nine years ago, the war between the Kingdom of Night and the Kingdom of Rivers tore Àn’yīng’s family apart, leaving her mother barely alive, and a baby sister to fend for. Now the mortal realm is falling into eternal night, and mó—beautiful, ravenous demons—roam, feasting on the souls of humans.

Àn’yīng’s only hope now is the Immortality Trials. If she can complete every Trial in the magical competition, she has the chance to save her mother’s life. But the Trials are deadly, and the longer Àn’yīng survives, the clearer it is that certain contestants are out for her blood. Even odder, though, is the handsome rival who seems intent on protecting her life. Survival is key, but Àn’yīng will need to figure out if she can trust the stranger she’s falling for, or if he’s the most dangerous player of all.©2025 Amélie Wen Zhao (P)2025 Listening Library

Critic reviews

“A sweeping romantasy that’s sure to cause a buzz. Fast-paced and brimming with a gritty allure, The Scorpion and the Night Blossom is your next must-read.”—Adalyn Grace, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Belladonna

“A mesmerizing blend of danger, spellbinding magic, and lush world-building, The Scorpion and the Night Blossom plunges readers into a world of deadly trials and ravenous demons. Àn’yīng’s journey is as captivating as it is perilous, with a romance that haunts and a plot that grips until the last page.”—Isabel Ibañez, #1 New York Times bestselling author of What the River Knows

“Lush and imaginative, with characters who will steal your heart from the very first page. The Scorpion and the Night Blossom is a brilliant entrance into the world of crossover romantasy.”—Brigid Kemmerer, New York Times bestselling author of Defy the Night

Great story I need more if this

Another great start to a series by the great Amelie she does an excellent job describing feelings and world around. I am thorn between characters no spoilers from me but let's just say you will be as well. Narrator did justice to a great story so 5 starts all around. You will find yourself so immerse in the story very quick and all of the sudden is over and now I need to wait for another part to it. is a must read or listed depending on your preference. Read this you will not regreat it.

Good story, but a bit too soap opera for me

The author spins an interesting world, and interesting characters. I didn’t like the AI narration, sounded too bland and monotone. The book probably would have more “fire” to it if a real person would have read it. It ended up seeming too much like a soap opera, not enough action.