Spice Road by Maiya Ibrahim

The first book in a critically acclaimed fantasy series for fans of Sabaa Tahir, Hafsah Faizal and Sarah J. Mass, set in an Arabian-inspired land where a nation of tribes renowned for their spices are attacked by an occupying king after he discovers their secret tea magic.

In the hidden desert city of Qalia, sixteen-year-old Imani dreams of joining the Council of Al-Zahim--the leaders who harness and protect her tribal nation's secret tea magic.

In neighboring Taeel-Sa, an orphan named Kazi has become an assassin. When he's offered unimaginable wealth to help a foreigner usurp Taeel-Sa's throne, he jumps at it. He is able to seize the throne...but soon learns his job is not complete.

After the attack, Imani is tasked to guard the source of her nation's magic. Meanwhile Kazi learns his future depends on taking it from her. But there are others who plot to steal the magic. If Imani and Kazi are to triumph, they'll both need help--and maybe magic of their own.