Läsarinnan

Ruled by the High Priests, where magic is banned, Elena decides to steal an old crown, unknowingly showing the priests her immunity for magic.

After being captured, she is to choose: either death, as a heretic, or to participate in the Grand Race. Where she is to face the greatest warriors of the Empire, who are all out for the money and the glory winning would ensue. This with a horse she doesn't know how to ride, and two very improbable allies.