A Desolation Called Peace is the thrilling sequel to Arkady Martine's genre-reinventing debut, A Memory Called Empire. As an alien armada looms on the edges of Teixcalaanli space, the empire is on the brink of a potential catastrophe. Unable to communicate or destroy the mysterious invaders, Fleet Captain Nine Hibiscus is quickly running out of options.

In an urgent bid for diplomacy, a diplomatic envoy has been dispatched. Now, Mahit Dzmare and Three Seagrass—still recovering from political turmoil within the empire—must embark on a daunting mission to establish communication with the hostile entity. Their efforts could dictate the survival of Teixcalaan, either saving the empire from destruction or paving the way for its relentless expansion. But success may also lead to an outcome far more unexpected.