Dagger of the Tsar

by Emma Ilene

To be announced.

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Retellings, Science Fiction Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance

Paperback

Published October 1, 2025

About the author

Emma Ilene is an author of fiction and fantasy. You can find Emma Ilene anywhere
on socials at @emmailene_. You can sign up for her newsletter, emma wrote what, for more writerly musings and updates on all her newest releases.

A note from Emma: I only use Goodreads to review and hype books that I've loved (many being ARCs I received from fellow authors).

Reviews

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to beta read this book and I’m over the moon to finally share this title on goodreads!! And I’m even more excited to get my hands on a final copy! Emma is a fantastic writer and knows how to immerse readers into her world and bring her lovable characters to life.

[Laken · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dagger of the Tsar was fantastic! I am blessed to have gotten a chance to read an early copy. If you liked the animated Anastasia movie, you will love this book! Emma is a talented writer. If her other books live up to or exceed the amazingness of this one, she is now a must buy author for me! Don't miss out on this debut novel!

[Olivia Slachter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was privileged enough to be able to beta-read this book and (I've said this before but I'm saying it again) I have NEVER been more excited for a book to release. EVER!

Emma's writing is genuinely top tier and I cannot wait for this book to hit the shelves!

[emily]

anastasia retelling? I’M UP!!!!!

[Zyanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to beta read this book and let me tell you, it didn't disappoint. If you love Anastasia and the Romanovs as much as I do, then this book is definitely for you. Emma does an incredible job with this fresh version, taking the care to flesh out scenes that you can't stop reading. The world building is excellent and it shows how much care and detail was put into it.

I don't think I can reveal much since there might be changes until the final version but I'm sure Alya will remain to be my favorite character <3 I can't wait to read the end product and see readers fall in love with it!

[☆]

"To hide her impossible power, Alya is brought to the lavish court to be trained as Valyant nobility. She’s tasked with nullifying the growing rumors of a lost Romanov heir and quelling a rebellion before it can ignite."

Shadow and Bone vibes, but better hopefully?