Review Detail

HONOR AMONG THIEVES is an engaging YA sci-fi that takes place in a world where humanity has been introduced to the Leviathans, creatures born in space who act as living ships. Humans are chosen each year for an Honors Tour, which has a murky process, but is considered an incredible achievement. They spend a year with a Leviathan, learning from each other. Some of the Honors Tour participants are chosen for the Journey, where they head out with Leviathans for the rest of their lives, never to visit Earth again.

Zara has lived on the fringes of Detroit for a long time. She makes her way through thievery, as long as she stays away from her father. Her mother and sister live on Mars. She is surprised by her selection for the Honors program, but accepts to escape the crime lord she has angered. However, the journey to space is sure to change her in ways she could have never anticipated.

What I loved: This is a lush sci-fi with intense and detailed descriptions that really capture this world beautifully. I also really love the Farscape inspiration (I assume) with Leviathans and even an interview with a Leviathan named Moira shown in one interlude. I loved the way that the mystery and magic of the Leviathans are shown through these interludes in addition to Zara's story. Zara's point-of-view is also interspersed with that of Nadim, the ship on which she rides.

The book is full of action and interesting morality discussions about weaponry, emotions, and privacy that I found really intriguing. The characters are fully realized, and I love the primary characters of Bea, Zara, and Nadim. They grow throughout the novel and quickly become close to the heart. Their journey is one I am eager to continue in future books. I also really love that this story is done without a romance, focusing on friendship, connection, and adventure.

What left me wanting more: As a relatively small point, we maybe get too much background at first that slow down the story a bit. It does pick up after we get to space, and the adventures there are really fascinating.

Final verdict: This is an engaging sci-fi that will appeal to fans of IGNITE THE STARS, HEART OF IRON, and FARSCAPE. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a new space adventure.