The Scorpion and the Night Blossom (The Three Realms, #1) by Amélie Wen Zhao

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.