The Gods Below – Andrea Stewart

After a divine war shattered the world, humanity struck a desperate pact with the god Kluehnn: in return for regular tributes of magical gems, he would restore the land to its former glory. But as each region is transformed, its people are changed into strange, altered forms — if they survive the process at all.

Desperate to protect her sister Rasha, Hakara flees her homeland — but tragedy strikes when they are separated during their escape. Years later, while working in dangerous gem mines, Hakara discovers she can channel the magic of the gems herself, catching the attention of a clandestine rebel group plotting to tear down the God Pact. To win her loyalty, they reveal a startling truth: Rasha is still alive. But saving her means going to war against a god.

Praised for its inventive eco-fantasy worldbuilding, magical gem system, and moral ambiguity. Widely celebrated across epic fantasy communities for its "sisters on opposing sides of a divine war" trope, dark magical underground realms, and rich post-apocalyptic lore.

Essential for fans of Andrea Stewart's The Bone Shard Daughter, Brandon Sanderson's The Stormlight Archive, Shannon Chakraborty's The City of Brass, or Hannah Kaner's Godkiller. Book 1 in The Hollow Covenant trilogy.

A trade paperback (2024) in Very Good condition — clean interior pages, firm binding, light shelf wear.