About This Book
City of Bastards is a young adult fantasy novel that plunges readers into a world of magic, political intrigue, and murder mystery. Tilla, the ostracized daughter of a traitor, finds her privileged life in the capital of Lightspire shattered when her university roommate is murdered. Dismissed as a suicide, Tilla's own attack by a mysterious figure convinces her of a deeper conspiracy involving powerful bloodmages, shadowy cults, and a brewing war. This book explores themes of identity, justice, and courage as Tilla defies warnings from her friends and the authorities to uncover a truth that could ignite a revolution. It's suitable for mature young readers aged 12-18 who enjoy complex plots and strong female protagonists.
Under the protection of the king in the capital of Lightspire, Tilla believes she is safe from the treasonous machinations of her father Lord Kent, but when her University roommate is murdered, Tilla finds herself deep in a plot involving religious cultists, bloodmages, and Western insurgents.
Character Death
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Scary Scenes
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Discussion Prompts
1
How does Tilla's identity as the 'bastard of House Kent' influence her actions and how others perceive her?
2
What does Tilla's decision to investigate the murder, despite warnings, tell us about her character and her sense of justice?
3
How do the themes of loyalty and betrayal play out among Tilla and her friends, and within the larger political landscape of Lightspire?
4
Discuss the role of magic and power in the story. How is it used for good and for ill?
5
What does the book suggest about the nature of truth and how easily it can be hidden or manipulated by those in power?
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