Title: Among Thieves
Author: M.J. Kuhn
First published September 7, 2021
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Rating: 3.71
Overview
Get ready for an epic adventure in M.J. Kuhn’s debut novel, Among Thieves. Set in a world of magic, malice, and high-stakes heists, this book is perfect for fans of Six of Crows.
Ryia Cautella is known as the deadliest blade in the city of Carrowwick, but she’s been hiding a deadly secret for the past six years. Now, she must face her fears and journey into the heart of the Guildmaster’s stronghold.
But she can’t do it alone. Forced to team up with a crew of miscreants, smugglers, and thieves, Ryia must navigate their selfish plans and carefully plan her next moves.
Will she finally win her freedom, or will her past catch up with her? Find out in Among Thieves.
Editoral Review
M.J. Kuhn’s debut novel, Among Thieves, is a thrilling addition to the heist genre that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Kuhn’s writing is crisp and engaging, bringing to life a diverse cast of characters and a complex world that is both gritty and imaginative.
Set in a world where magic is real and used as a tool for thievery and criminal enterprise, Among Thieves follows the story of a talented thief named Kail who is pulled into a high-stakes job with a motley crew of criminals. As they prepare for the heist of a lifetime, Kail and the other thieves must navigate dangerous alliances, personal conflicts, and unexpected obstacles.
One of the strengths of this book is its character development. Kuhn not only creates compelling protagonists, but also fleshes out a robust and diverse cast of supporting characters.
Each one has their own backstory and personality, which makes them feel like fully realized individuals rather than just heist tropes. Kuhn’s writing also deftly handles the intricate relationships and dynamics between the characters, making for a satisfying and well-rounded story.
The pacing of Among Thieves is also noteworthy, as Kuhn keeps the stakes high and the action coming in a non-stop thrill ride. The world-building is also impressive, as Kuhn crafts a vivid and immersive fantasy setting that feels both unique and believable.
The book deals with themes of loyalty, trust, and the consequences of one’s actions, making it a thought-provoking read. Additionally, the world of Among Thieves is diverse and inclusive, giving voice to marginalized characters and exploring issues of race, gender, and sexuality.
If there is one flaw in the book, it is that at times the plot can feel convoluted and confusing. However, Kuhn generally manages to keep things on track, and readers who enjoy complex heist stories will likely find this a minor issue.
Overall, Among Thieves is a fantastic debut that will appeal to fans of heist stories and fantasy alike. Kuhn’s writing is strong, her characters are engaging, and the story is pulse-pounding.
It is the rare book that manages to be both genre-defying and accessible, making it a standout read of the year. Rating: 4.5/5
