Waiting on Wednesday (34) The Rose and the Dagger

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Breaking the Spine to highlight upcoming releases we're excited about.

This week I'm excited about...

Title: The Rose and the Dagger

Author: Renée Ahdieh

Publisher: Putnam Juvenile

Release Date: May 3, 2016

In a land on the brink of war, Shahrzad has been torn from the love of her husband Khalid, the Caliph of Khorasan. She once believed him a monster, but his secrets revealed a man tormented by guilt and a powerful curse—one that might keep them apart forever. Reunited with her family, who have taken refuge with enemies of Khalid, and Tariq, her childhood sweetheart, she should be happy. But Tariq now commands forces set on destroying Khalid's empire. Shahrzad is almost a prisoner caught between loyalties to people she loves. But she refuses to be a pawn and devises a plan.

While her father, Jahandar, continues to play with magical forces he doesn't yet understand, Shahrzad tries to uncover powers that may lie dormant within her. With the help of a tattered old carpet and a tempestuous but sage young man, Shahrzad will attempt to break the curse and reunite with her one true love.

I love the synopsis.  The first book was pretty good and left me wanting more so I need this. But can I take a moment to talk about the cover?  I love the background picture of Shazi.  But that blue.  I think it's a little too.... periwinkle?  It's a bit bright and kind of hurts my eyes :/

What are you excited about?