Forbidden

A vial of blood leads a troubled young man on a quest to save humanity in this inspirational dystopian thriller by two New York Times–bestselling authors.

“Mammoth twists and head-pounding turns that will have readers and book clubs debating the roles of emotion and logic that drive human existence.” —Publishers Weekly

Many years have passed since civilization's brush with apocalypse. The world’s greatest threats have all been silenced. There is no anger, no hatred, no war. There is only perfect peace . . .and fear. But a terrible secret has been closely guarded for centuries: Every single soul walking the earth, though in appearance totally normal, is actually dead, long ago genetically stripped of true humanity.

Fleeing pursuit, with only moments to live, a young man named Rom stumbles into possession of a vial of blood and a piece of cryptic writing. When consumed, the blood will bring him back to life. When decoded, the message will lead him on a perilous journey that will require him to abandon everything he has ever known and awaken humanity to the transforming power of true life and love.

But the blood will also resurrect hatred, ambition, and greed.

Set in a terrifying, medieval future, where grim pageantry masks death, this tale of dark desires and staggering stakes peels back the layers of the heart for all who dare to take the ride.

Praise for Forbiddden

“Dekker and Lee have created an intriguing future world . . . poised on the edge of vast upheaval. [They] draw readers into it and make them eager to read more.” —Booklist

“Forbidden . . . rocks with the same level of intensity and brilliance as Dekker’s Circle Series. Riveting, resounding, and a magnificent blend of Dekker’s and Lee’s styles. I devoured Forbidden.” —James L. Rubart, bestselling author

© 2025 Center Street (Ebook): 9781455509850

Release date

Ebook: 8 April 2025