Hey bookworm friends. I’m back with another BBNYA semi-finalist to hype up! Today’s spotlight will be shining a light on The City of Mist and Tears by Alex Robins. This is another one I read an excerpt for and I had a very positive first impression. I found the plot engaging and the world-building fascinating. The writing style was immersive and I really felt the tension from the mystery and danger from the get-go. When the excerpt was finished, I was left wanting so much more which is a great sign for my enjoyment!
About The City of Mist and Tears

Author: Alex Robins
Genre(s): Fantasy
Age Category: Adult
Page Count: 339 Pages
Pub Date: December 5, 2024
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Blurb
Keselgraad. A city of iron and stone, rising from the mist-shrouded wasteland to pierce the pallid clouds. A colossal man-made mountain stretching a mile high, from the blood-stained alleyways of the Slums to the crystal-studded spire of the Church of the Mother, whose amethyst shards shine brighter than any star.
Keselgraad. Both a haven and a prison. There is no way in. No way out. For the city is under constant assault from an enemy that is as relentless as it is indomitable; a raging sea of churning white that encircles the crumbling walls in its cold embrace. Only the radiance of the Mother can stem the ravenous tide. Only the shield of her faith can keep her citizens safe.
But there is a secret hidden deep within the ancient, decrepit heart of Keselgraad. It is whispered in the darkness of the underground galleries. Scratched into the mud. Etched into the stone.
The crystals are failing.
Their light is dying.
And without their protection, the Mists will be free to enter Keselgraad. To gorge themselves on the flesh of a thousand helpless souls. To drain the life from every last living being; man, woman, and child.
Until the city becomes a tomb.
Purchase Links
⟡ Amazon US│Amazon UK│Amazon CA ⟡
About Alex Robins

Alex Robins hails from the sunny Loire Valley in western France, surrounded by imposing castles and sprawling vineyards. When not writing he spends his time reading, cycling, and playing the guitar very badly.
Author Website & Socials
⟡ Website │Twitter │Instagram│Bluesky ⟡
About BBNYA
BBNYA is a yearly competition where book bloggers from all over the world read and score books written by indie authors, ending with 15 (17 in 2025) finalists and one overall winner. If you want some more information about BBNYA, check out the BBNYA Website. The award is brought to you in association with @The Write Reads.
Let’s chat in the comments!
Did you add this one to your TBR? Or, what’s a series where you really love the world-building?

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