The Price of Thorns is a work of fiction in the epic fantasy, adventure, and LGBTQ+ fiction subgenres. It is intended for the young adult reading audience. In this superbly penned, cinematic novel by author Tim Susman, we are introduced to Nivvy, a skilled thief with many secrets. Nivvy is thrust into an epic task by Bella, a mysterious woman with an ancient past. The mission: steal back the kingdom she claims as her own. As Nivvy unravels the layers of truth and connections to ancient tales, he discovers the journey is far more perilous than anticipated. Bella's secrets intertwine with the forgotten narratives, revealing a dangerous adventure that surpasses the allure of stealing a kingdom. Author Tim Susman has crafted a narrative where the language of storytelling is not just a tool by which we discover the tale, but an integral part of the plot in a gloriously meta-themed way. The blend of mystery, adventure, and the uncovering of hidden histories creates a compelling story that keeps readers engaged from the first page to the last. I was really impressed with the pacing to keep such a meaty epic adventure going through episodic moments and with plenty of highs and lows in the drama. The characters, especially Nivvy and Bella, are intricately developed, with some fascinating dialogue that shows you how their attitudes have been shaped by the fantastical world around them and its many pressures and constraints. Susman's ability to weave a tale within a tale, where secrets are both currency and curse, showcases a unique and captivating storytelling style that is a rare gift indeed. The natural inclusion of LGBTQ+ theming and characters was gorgeously done as a true representation without ever feeling gimmicky. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend The Price of Thorns to fantasy fans everywhere as an unmissable read for the year ahead.
