1
of
1
Empire in Black and Gold
Series: Shadows of the Apt
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still
learning, it may not be perfect - your
feedback is welcome!
Summary
Read More
Format: Paperback / softback
$2999
Unit price
/
Unavailable
AVAILABLE WITH SUPPLIER
Ships from our Auckland warehouse within 4-6 weeks
Found a better price? Request a price match
Empire in Black and Gold
$2999
Unit price
/
Unavailable
Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?
Ideal for fans of epic fantasy and intricate worldbuilding who appreciate smart, innovative storytelling and complex characters. Suitable for readers seeking a richly crafted fantasy series with a blend of political intrigue and action.
Latest News
Romance for Spring - Groundbreaking!
Lizzy is sharing her top picks for Spring reads in the romance and romantasy genre...
The ‘Fourth Wing’ graphic novel covers have been revealed
The covers for ‘Fourth Wing, The Graphic Novel: Volume One’ have officially been revealed, with...
Books about Bookshops (across almost every genre)
Books about books, bookshops, and booksellers - it's my favourite thing. Here's a small selection...
What the Book Hero team is excited for
With so many pre-orders coming in the last few months of the year, we asked...
Meet Reverie Puzzles: Puzzles Made for Book Lovers
Reverie Puzzles have arrived at Book Hero and they might just be the perfect puzzles...
See moreAdrian Tchaikovsky, author of the Arthur C. Clarke Award winner Children of Time, brings you an epic fantasy series of war and empire. In this first volume, an ancient empire sets its sights on conquering its allies, threatening decades of peace. But only one man sees war is coming.
The days of peace are over . . .
Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and
still learning, it may not be perfect - your
feedback is welcome!
Description
From the author of the thrilling science-fiction epic Children of Time, winner of the prestigious Arthur C. Clarke Award.
Empire in Black and Gold is the first instalment in the critically-acclaimed fantasy series Shadows of the Apt by Adrian Tchaikovsky.
The days of peace are over...
The Lowlands' city states have lived in peace for decades, hailed as bastions of civilisation. Yet that peace is about to end. A distant empire has been conquering neighbours with highly trained soldiers and sophisticated combat techniques. And the city states are its desirable new prize.
Only the ageing Stenwold Maker—spymaster, artificer and statesman—foresees the threat, as the empires' armies march ever closer. So it falls upon his shoulders to open the eyes of the cities' leaders. He sees that war will sweep through their lands, destroying everything in its path.
But to warn his people, he must stay alive.
Empire in Black and Gold is followed by the second book in the Shadows of the Apt series, Dragonfly Falling.
Series: Shadows of the Apt
View all-
Heirs of the Blade
Heirs of the Blade is the seventh book in the critically acclaimed epic fantasy series Shadows of the Apt by Adrian Tchaikovsky. The greatest foe is the enemy within . . . Tynisa is on the run, but she cannot escape the demons of her own mind. Amidst the fragmenting provinces of the Dragonfly Commonweal, her past will at last...Paperback$2300Elsewhere:$2499Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks -
Blood of the Mantis
Blood of the Mantis is the third novel in Adrian Tchaikovsky's richly imagined Shadows of the Apt series, following Dragonfly Falling. Stenwold must rally his allies for battle against the Empire, even as it seeks a dangerous artifact of enormous power. A dread ritual casts a deadly shadow... Achaeos the seer has finally tracked down the stolen Shadow Box. But...Paperback$2799Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks -
Empire in Black and Gold
From the author of the thrilling science-fiction epic Children of Time, winner of the prestigious Arthur C. Clarke Award. Empire in Black and Gold is the first instalment in the critically-acclaimed fantasy series Shadows of the Apt by Adrian Tchaikovsky. The days of peace are over... The Lowlands' city states have lived in peace for decades, hailed as bastions of...Paperback$2999Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks -
Salute the Dark
Salute the Dark is the fourth book in the critically acclaimed epic fantasy series Shadows of the Apt by Adrian Tchaikovsky, winner of the Arthur C. Clarke Award. As spymaster Stenworld makes a stand in his home city, others must choose where their loyalties lie. All must face the end of days . . . The mighty Wasp armies are...Paperback$3199Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks -
The Scarab Path
The Scarab Path is the fifth book in the critically acclaimed epic fantasy series Shadows of the Apt by Adrian Tchaikovsky. Ancient powers are waking . . . The war with the Wasp Empire has ended in a bitter stalemate, and Collegium has nothing to show for it but wounded veterans. Cheerwell Maker finds herself broken in ways no doctor...Paperback$2999Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks -
The Sea Watch
The Sea Watch is the sixth book in the critically acclaimed epic fantasy series Shadows of the Apt by Adrian Tchaikovsky. Danger lurks beneath dark waters . . . A shadow is falling over Collegium. Despite the tenuous peace, Stenwold Maker knows that the Empire will return for his city. Even as he tries to prepare for the resurgence of...Paperback$2999Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks -
War Master's Gate
War Master's Gate is the ninth book in the critically acclaimed epic fantasy series Shadows of the Apt by Adrian Tchaikovsky. A city makes its last stand... The Empire's mighty imperial armies are marching on Collegium once more. They've learnt from past failures and this time their Empress will brook no weakness. Stenwold Maker's aviators still dominate the skies, but...Paperback$4299Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks -
Dragonfly Falling
Dragonfly Falling is the second book in the critically acclaimed epic fantasy series Shadows of the Apt by Adrian Tchaikovsky. Every hero must be tested... The Wasp Empire's armies are on the move, and the city of Tark will be the first to feel their might. Salma and Totho prepare for battle, alongside their Ant-kinden brethren. Within Tark's walls, they...PaperbackSold Out
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
Praised for its brimming imagination and extreme inventiveness, this book is described as epic fantasy at its best with superb worldbuilding and great characters. Critics highlight Tchaikovsky as one of today's finest writers, delivering gripping, original, and multi-layered storytelling full of fascinating ideas. The narrative is entertaining, smart, surprising, and unexpectedly human.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781529050264
Publisher: Pan Macmillan
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 18 February 2021
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Tor
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 40.0mm
Width: 130.0mm
Height: 197.0mm
Weight: 428g
Pages: 624
About the Author
Adrian Tchaikovsky was born in Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire, and headed off to university in Reading to study psychology and zoology. For reasons unclear even to himself, he subsequently ended up in law. Adrian has since worked as a legal executive in both Reading and Leeds and now writes full time. He also lives in Leeds, with his wife and son. Adrian is a keen live role-player and occasional amateur actor. He has also trained in stage-fighting and keeps no exotic or dangerous pets of any kind - possibly excepting his son. Adrian is the author of the critically acclaimed Shadows of the Apt series, the Echoes of the Fall series and other novels, novellas and short stories. The Tiger and the Wolf won the British Fantasy Award for Best Fantasy Novel - and Children of Time won the Arthur C. Clarke Award for Best Science Fiction Novel. This was in the award's thirtieth anniversary year.
Also by Adrian Tchaikovsky
View all-
Children of Ruin
Children of Ruin by Adrian Tchaikovsky continues the gripping saga begun in the award-winning Children of Time. In this thrilling sequel, Tchaikovsky crafts a compelling tale of exploration, discovery, and the haunting legacy of our past. Millennia before the events of Children of Time, ambitious human scientists embarked on a terraforming venture, transforming distant planets into new homes for Earth's...Paperback$2100Elsewhere:$3500Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
Children of Memory
From the award-winning master of sci-fi Adrian Tchaikovsky, Children of Memory is the unmissable follow-up space opera to the highly acclaimed Children of Time and Children of Ruin. They dreamed of a new home. They woke to a nightmare. On Imir, Captain Holt founded a new colony on an empty world. In the process, he created hope and a new...Paperback$2200Elsewhere:$2499Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
Lords of Uncreation
From Adrian Tchaikovsky, author of Children of Time and winner of the Arthur C. Clarke Award, Lords of Uncreation is the final high-octane instalment in the Final Architecture space opera trilogy. He's found a way to end their war, but will humanity survive to see it? Idris Telemmier has uncovered a secret that changes everything - the Architects' greatest weakness....Paperback$2799Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
House of Open Wounds
Behind the front lines of a crusade to scour the world of magic, the crew of a field hospital confront the horrors of war. A companion novel to Adrian Tchaikovsky’s award-winning fantasy novel City of Last Chances. City-by-city, kingdom-by-kingdom, the Palleseen have sworn to bring Perfection and Correctness to an imperfect world. As their legions scour the world of superstition...Paperback$2499Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
Days of Shattered Faith
Welcome to Alkhalend, Jewel of the Waters, capital of Usmai, greatest of the Successor States, inheritor to the necromantic dominion that was the Moeribandi Empire and tomorrow’s frontline in the Palleseen’s relentless march to bring Perfection and Correctness to an imperfect world. Loret is fresh off the boat, and just in time. As Cohort-Invigilator of Correct Appreciation, Outreach department, she’s...Paperback$3699Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
Bee Speaker
From the Arthur C. Clarke award winner, Adrian Tchaikovsky, comes the third instalment of the DOGS OF WAR science fiction series, a future where genetically engineered “Bioforms” have inherited not the Earth, but the Solar System. The end of the world has been and gone. There was no one great natural disaster, no all-consuming world war, no catastrophic pandemic. Only...Hardback$4699Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks -
Eyes of the Void
From the author of the thrilling science-fiction epic Children of Time, which won the prestigious Arthur C. Clarke Award. Eyes of the Void is the second high-octane instalment in Adrian Tchaikovsky's Final Architecture space opera trilogy. 'One of the most interesting and accomplished writers in speculative fiction' - Christopher Paolini What waits in the shadows as we fight our greatest...Paperback$2499Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
Days of Shattered Faith
Welcome to Alkhalend, Jewel of the Waters, capital of Usmai, greatest of the Successor States, inheritor to the necromantic dominion that was the Moeribandi Empire and tomorrow’s frontline in the Palleseen’s relentless march to bring Perfection and Correctness to an imperfect world. Loret is fresh off the boat, and just in time. As Cohort-Invigilator of Correct Appreciation, Outreach department, she’s...Hardback$5299Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks -
Spiderlight
The path to victory will only be seen through a spider's eyes... Spiderlight is an exhilarating fantasy quest from Arthur C. Clarke Award-winner Adrian Tchaikovsky, the author of Children of Time, Guns of the Dawn and the Shadows of the Apt series. The Church of Armes of the Light has battled the forces of Darkness for as long as anyone...Paperback$3200Elsewhere:$3799Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks -
18% offShards of Earth
From the author of the thrilling science-fiction epic Children of Time, winner of the prestigious Arthur C. Clarke Award. "One of the most interesting and accomplished writers in speculative fiction" - Christopher Paolini Shards of Earth is the first high-octane instalment in the Final Architecture trilogy. The war is over. Its heroes forgotten. Until one chance discovery . . ....Paperback$1800Elsewhere:$2499Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
Made Things
Award-winning author Adrian Tchaikovsky’s Made Things is a dark yet whimsical fantasy tale full of magic, half-mages and puppet companions. Making friends could mean the differencebetween ruin and great reward . . . Welcome to Fountains Parish – a cesspit of trade and crime, where ambition curls up to die and desperation grows on its cobbled streets like mould on...Hardback$5000Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks -
Children of Time
Humanity is overrated. Children of Time the tenth anniversary edition. This paperback edition features an exclusive short story 'Bearable'. Adrian Tchaikovsky's critically acclaimed novel Children of Time is the epic story of humanity's battle for survival on a terraformed planet. Winner of the 30th anniversary Arthur C. Clarke Award for Best Novel. Who will inherit this new Earth? The last...Paperback$2800Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today
More from Sci-Fi & Fantasy
View all-
Buy to WinThe Strength of the Few
The highly anticipated follow-up to The Will of the Many—one of 2023's most lauded and bestselling fantasy novels. The Hierarchy still call me Vis Telimus. They still, as one, believe they know who I am. But with all that has happened—with what I fear is coming—I am not sure it matters anymore. I am no longer one. I won the...Paperback$2899Elsewhere:$3800Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
Buy to Win17% offProject Hail Mary
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir, the SUNDAY TIMES and NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author of The Martian, offers a gripping new adventure in hard science fiction. With endorsement from notable figures such as Barack Obama and a slew of five-star reviews, this novel promises a thrilling and intellectually stimulating journey. Ryland Grace, a lone astronaut, finds himself on a...Paperback$2000Elsewhere:$2400Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
14% offRed Rising
The first book in the incredible New York Times bestselling series Darrow is a Helldiver, toiling beneath the surface of Mars. As a member of the Red caste, he performs grueling labor in the belief that his sacrifice will enable future generations to one day inhabit the surface of the Red Planet. The Reds are humankind's lowest caste, living in...Paperback$1900Elsewhere:$2799Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
Crossroads of Ravens
THE GLOBAL PHENOMENON RETURNS... Every legend has an origin - and Geralt of Rivia's begins here. In this brand-new chapter of Andrzej Sapkowski's Witcher series, follow Geralt in his earliest days as a Witcher, as he faces monsters and humans alike. Discover the untold stories and encounters that shaped the iconic character known today. Crossroads of Ravens brings readers into...Paperback$2899Elsewhere:$3799Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
Buy to Win
The Will of the Many
Phenomenal! One of the best high fantasy novels I've read in years—think Red Rising meets The Name of the Wind. I couldn't put it down. - LYNETTE NONI This new edition of book one in the Hierarchy series features never-before-seen bonus materials, including a full-colour map by the author, a note to the reader, and new cover art. AUDI. VICE....Paperback$2999Elsewhere:$3800Unit price /UnavailableBackorderShips mid September -
13% offWind and Truth
The long-awaited explosive climax to the first arc of the Number One New York Times bestselling Stormlight Archive. Wind and Truth by Brandon Sanderson sees Dalinar Kholin challenge the evil god Odium to a contest of champions with the future of Roshar on the line. The Knights Radiant have only ten days to prepare, and the sudden ascension of the...Paperback$2700Elsewhere:$3999Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
The Ministry of Time
One of the 18 best novels of the year for the Sunday Times A book of the year for the New York Times, Guardian, Independent, Evening Standard, Spectator, Red, NPR, Vanity Fair, People, Slate, Advocate, Sydney Morning Herald, Globe and Mail, Den of Geek, Good Housekeeping, Goodreads, NetGalley and Smithsonian Magazine 'A sparkling delight' Observer 'Make room on your bookshelves...Paperback$2399Elsewhere:$2799Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
Assassin’s Apprentice
Assassin's Apprentice by Robin Hobb marks the beginning of an extraordinary adventure in the rich and immersive world of the Six Duchies. Set against the backdrop of a kingdom teetering on the brink of civil war, this gripping tale introduces readers to FitzChivalry Farseer, a royal bastard whose existence threatens the stability of the crown. When the crown prince's secret...Paperback$1900Elsewhere:$2299Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
I Who Have Never Known Men
A haunting, heartbreaking tale of female friendship and intimacy that evokes the chilling atmospheres of The Handmaid's Tale and the desolate landscapes of The Road, I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman is a story that lingers long after the last page is turned. This gripping narrative takes us deep underground, where thirty-nine women are held in isolation...Paperback$2800Elsewhere:$3299Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
The Colour Illustrated Hobbit
The Colour Illustrated Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien is a timeless classic that has enchanted readers for generations. This beloved tale follows Bilbo Baggins, a peace-loving hobbit from the quaint and picturesque Shire, who finds himself thrust into an epic journey far from the comforts of his cosy home. Charming and lively illustrations by Jemima Catlin breathe new life...Paperback$2700Elsewhere:$2999Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
Blood Over Bright Haven
A riveting dark academia fantasy about the limits of truth and power, from the author of The Sword of Kaigen. The first woman ever admitted to a prestigious order of mages unravels a secret conspiracy that could change the practice of magic forever, in this standalone dark fantasy from the author of The Sword of Kaigen. For twenty years, Sciona...Paperback$3400Elsewhere:$3800Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today -
15% off
The Great Dune Trilogy
Frank Herbert's The Great Dune Trilogy plunges readers into an evocative and grandiose saga set on the desert planet of Arrakis. This richly detailed landscape becomes the focal point for a complex tapestry of political intrigue, military conflict, and galaxy-wide repercussions. Arrakis, also known as Dune, is the sole source of the spice melange, a valuable and highly sought-after substance...Paperback$3300Elsewhere:$4499Unit price /UnavailableIn StockShips today
Why buy from us?
Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent 100% NZ-owned business on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!
Service & Delivery
Our warehouse in Auckland holds over 100,000 books, toys, board games and puzzles in-stock so you're not waiting for your order to arrive from overseas.
Auckland Bookstore
We're primarily an online store, but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our bookstore, which is right next door to our warehouse in Hobsonville.
Our Gifting Service
Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.
Sci-Fi & Fantasy lists from the team
Explore our curated lists from our heroes to find your next read!
-
![]()
![]()
![]()
Lizzy's listSci-Fi & Fantasy
Lizzy's Cozy Fantasy Reads
Life can be cold and harsh, so why not escape into the comforting pages of a cozy fantasy novel for a while?...View the list -
![]()
![]()
![]()
Edd's listSci-Fi & Fantasy
2026 Hugo Award for Best Novel Finalists
Every year at the World Science Fiction Convention (Worldcon), members vote on the best Science Fiction or Fantasy works of the previous...View the list -
![]()
![]()
![]()
Lizzy's listSci-Fi & Fantasy
Fantasy Special Editions we are lusting after
It's no secret that here at Book Hero we love a special edition - preferably one with sprayed edges, beautiful artwork, and...View the list -
![]()
![]()
![The Will of the Many]()
Edd's listSci-Fi & Fantasy
Sci-Fi and Fantasy Special Editions
With physical books making a comeback in recent years, there are more gorgeous special editions out there than ever before. Here’s a...View the list -
![]()
![]()
![]()
Shirl's listSci-Fi & Fantasy
10 Sci-Fi Novels that won both the Nebula and Hugo Awards
Discover ten of the greatest science fiction novels ever written each recognised with both the Hugo and Nebula Awards. These awards are...View the list
