The Thirteenth Child
The Thirteenth Child by Erin A. Craig, published by Random House on September 30, 2025, is a 512-page novel that weaves a fantastical narrative inspired by the Grimm Brothers’ dark fairytale “Godfather Death.” The story follows Hazel Trépas, a thirteenth child destined for a unique fate, as she navigates her life under the watchful eye of her godfather, Merrick, the Dreaded End. Gifted with the ability to discern the exact cure for ailments, Hazel’s journey is marked by the heavy burden of her powers and the moral dilemmas that arise from them.
Readers will find a richly developed world where Hazel grapples with her identity and the consequences of her gifts. As she encounters the royal court and forms a connection with Leo, a prince with a cynical outlook, she faces a pivotal choice that challenges her understanding of duty and love. This edition delves into themes of sacrifice and the complexities of fate, making it a compelling addition for those interested in young adult fiction, dark fantasy, and adaptations of classic tales.
Official synopsis Publisher
#1 NEW YORK TIMES AND USA TODAY BESTSELLER • Drawing on the Grimm Brothers’ dark fairytale “Godfather Death,” this sweeping novel from the author of House of Salt and Sorrows is a fantastical saga of actions and consequences.
“A dark, delicious treat from start to finish.”—Kendare Blake, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Three Dark Crowns
All gifts come with a price.
Hazel Trépas has always known she wasn’t like the rest of her siblings. A thirteenth child, promised away to one of the gods, she spends her childhood waiting for her godfather—Merrick, the Dreaded End—to arrive.
When he does, he lays out exactly how he’s planned Hazel’s future. She will become a great healer, known throughout the kingdom for her precision and skill. To aid her endeavors, Merrick blesses Hazel with a gift, the ability to instantly deduce the exact cure needed to treat the sick.
But all gifts come with a price. Hazel can see when Death has claimed a patient—when all hope is gone—and is tasked to end their suffering, permanently. Haunted by the ghosts of those she’s killed, Hazel longs to run. But destiny brings her to the royal court, where she meets Leo, a rakish prince with a disdain for everything and everyone. And it’s where Hazel faces her biggest dilemma yet—to save the life of a king marked to die. Hazel knows what she is meant to do and knows what her heart is urging her toward, but what will happen if she goes against the will of Death?
From the astonishing mind of Erin A. Craig comes the breathtaking fairy tale retelling readers have been waiting for—what does a life well-lived mean, and how do we justify the impossible choices we make for the ones we love? The Thirteenth Child is a must-read for fans of dark fairy tales, romantasy, and epic fantasy alike.
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