A globally bestselling phenomenon—soon to be a Netflix adaptation—now available in English for the first time. This dark, intense, and deeply haunting novel follows two deeply scarred teens, brought together by fate and forced to confront a love that could either heal or destroy them.

Nica grew up in a bleak orphanage ruled by a cruel matron, enduring years of suffering. To survive, she escaped into her imagination, weaving elaborate stories—especially about the Tearsmith, a fearsome figure who creates tears and brings people’s worst fears to life.

At seventeen, Nica is finally adopted, leaving behind the orphanage, its torment, and the fantastical tales that once consumed her. But her past follows her when Rigel—another survivor of the same cruel institution—is taken in by her new family.

Brooding, strikingly handsome, and deeply troubled, Rigel has always been a source of conflict and mistrust for Nica. Yet, as they find themselves living under the same roof again, their shared trauma forges an undeniable connection. Despite the pain of their past, Nica finds herself drawn to Rigel in a way she never expected.

But before they can explore the possibility of love, they must confront the darkness that haunts them both—and the dangerous consequences of seeking a future together.