The Shuddering City

The world is coming apart at the seams in this impressive fantasy from Shinn (Mystic and Rider). Once separate, the lands of the continent were bound together by the god Cordelan, so that the bounties of each would benefit the others. United, they have flourished—but they hold a dark secret. As earthquakes rock the city of Corcannon, the lives of several characters collide. Wandering Pietro, a former priest, witnesses young Aussen perform a small act of magic and hires Jayla, a mercenary, to protect the child. It’s not Jayla’s only job: she’s also working as a bodyguard for Madeleine Alayne, who’s had multiple attempts on her life. Their stories wind around one another: Jayla works to find Aussen’s mother, protects Madeleine, and learns about the city from her friend, Cody; Pietro, who knows more about the city than any of the others guess, embarks on his own quest to alter mechanisms that have been in motion since the continent was created. Throughout, Shinn balances vivid worldbuilding, captivating characters, and a fascinating mystery. Readers won’t want to put this down. (Nov.)