Renowned author Jean Kwok has delved into the world of romantasy fiction to find solace and inspiration during a challenging period in her life. Best known for her works like Searching for Sylvie Lee, Kwok has now ventured into a new realm with her upcoming trilogy, ‘The Silk and Iron,’ starting with the novel ‘Dominion,’ set to be released in July 2026. This exclusive sneak peek into Kwok’s latest creation has been shared with PEOPLE, offering a glimpse into a captivating new universe.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/jean-kwok-dominion-102125-1246105796d04e2787a8e6aef6751598.jpg)
Facing the distress of a long-term marriage coming to an end, Kwok turned to romantasy novels as a source of comfort and hope. Reflecting on this transformative experience, she expressed to PEOPLE how these fantastical literary works reminded her of the resilience and magic we all hold within ourselves, even in the darkest of times. This shift towards romantasy may appear unexpected for Kwok, given her previous focus on contemporary and historical fiction. However, these new influences have culminated in ‘Dominion’, a riveting tale awaiting readers next summer.
Described as a fusion of “Fourth Wing — by way of Chinese mythology — meets The Hunger Games,” ‘Dominion’ is set in a divided world comprising four rival Dominions. The protagonist, Rubi Morningtail, finds herself in the midst of political intrigue and magical abilities as she navigates her place in this tumultuous realm. Her encounter with Blake Axefire, a formidable figure within the Royal Tyger Dominion, sets off a series of events that test her limits and unravel her hidden powers. Through trials and challenges, Rubi must confront not just external threats but also inner conflicts, including her burgeoning emotions for Blake.
For Kwok, ‘Dominion’ holds profound personal significance as it blends elements of her Chinese heritage, passion for fantasy, and belief in redemption. This novel symbolizes a journey of healing and self-discovery for the author, resonating with themes of second chances and the power of imagination. As she infuses her own background into this romantasy narrative, Kwok aims to transport readers into a world brimming with wonder and renewal, echoing her own path to healing through storytelling.
Beyond ‘Dominion’, Jean Kwok is recognized for her previous works such as ‘The Leftover Woman’ and ‘Mambo in Chinatown.’ Her latest venture promises to captivate audiences with its unique blend of genre-bending storytelling and emotionally resonant themes. Scheduled for publication on July 14, 2026, ‘Dominion’ is now available for pre-order, inviting readers to embark on a spellbinding journey into a realm where magic and resilience intertwine.
Embracing the essence of romantasy, Jean Kwok’s upcoming novel serves as a testament to the transformative power of storytelling and the enduring human spirit. Through her creativity and imagination, Kwok invites readers to explore realms beyond reality, where hope and courage shine brightly amidst adversity. As the release of ‘Dominion’ approaches, anticipation builds for a tale that promises to enchant and inspire, offering a glimpse into a world where the extraordinary intertwines with the ordinary, creating a tapestry of emotions and experiences for readers to immerse themselves in.