Thief's Cunning

Gr 9 Up—Set 18 years after Assassin's Heart, this work features Allegra Saldana, the niece of Lea Saldana, the protagonist of the first book, as she becomes involved in a more mature relationship with Nev, the Traveler boy who is free from the chains of Allegra's world, where she is a hunted assassin. While the Saldanas were once the most feared assassins, now they are the most sought after. This companion novel reveals the answers to Allegra's questions about being part of one of the most infamous families of assassins. As the truth about her family is exposed, readers, along with Allegra, will be surprised at the outcome. The Da Vias are still the number one enemy of the Saldanas and are seeking revenge, but this time their vengeance comes with a price as Allegra is kidnapped and taken to a land where secrets about her family are uncovered. Just as the first title was full of fantasy and adventure, this companion does not disappoint. While the previous volume may have been appropriate for a middle school audience, this one will appeal to older teens.