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*ONE OF TIME MAGAZINE’S 100 MUST-READ BOOKS OF 2025*

Is all that we see or seem
But a dream within a dream?
– Edgar Allan Poe

At 14, Julia Z became infamous as the “orphan hacker,” a teenage prodigy who broke the law and captivated a nation. Now, years later, she’s trying to leave that life behind, hiding in the quiet suburbs of Boston. But her fragile anonymity is shattered when a desperate lawyer bursts into her life, begging for her help to find his wife-a celebrated artist who uses AI to craft shared dreams for thousands of followers and who has been kidnapped by a criminal syndicate.

Against her better judgment, Julia embarks on a harrowing journey across the country, drawn ever-deeper into the shadows of the American dream. As she tracks the criminals, she confronts not only their perilous schemes but also the ghosts of her own past. Resourceful, relentless, and deeply contemptuous of authority, Julia must dig deep into her unique skillset and fractured psyche to uncover the truth – and to hold onto hope when everything around her descends into darkness.

This is the first book in an electrifying new series that masterfully intertwines the urgent thriller with thought-provoking speculation on the future of art in an age dominated by artificial intelligence. Julia Z is a bold, unforgettable heroine destined to captivate readers – a literary creation as rich and compelling as the Dandelion Dynasty itself.

Publisher Review

‘This is one of the best science-fiction books of the year.’ * Guardian * ‘This is another marvel from a perennially innovative author. . . Sparkles with suspense, intensity, and effortless worldbuilding.’ * Publishers Weekly, starred review * Reviews for Ken Liu

‘Ken Liu is the kind of prodigious talent who makes mere mortals melt in despair at ever matching his accomplishments.’ – Locus on The Hidden Girl and Other stories

‘Ken Liu’s output is as amazing as his stories.’ – The Boston Globe on The Hidden Girl and Other stories