Think Ocean’s 11 plus dragons, and you’ll have a rough idea of what to expect in Fire & Heist by Sarah Beth Durst, the action-packed, magic-filled dragon heist you didn’t know you needed.
In Sky Hawkins’s family, leading your first heist is a major milestone–even more so than learning to talk, walk, or do long division. It’s a chance to gain power and acceptance within your family, and within society. But stealing your first treasure can be complicated, especially when you’re a wyvern–a human capable of turning into a dragon.
Embarking on a life of crime is never easy, and Sky discovers secrets about her mother, who recently went missing, the real reason her boyfriend broke up with her, and a valuable jewel that could restore her family’s wealth and rank in their community.
With a handpicked crew by her side, Sky knows she has everything she needs to complete her first heist, and get her boyfriend and mother back in the process. But then she uncovers a dark truth about were-dragon society–a truth more valuable and dangerous than gold or jewels could ever be.
It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Durst’s writing, and Fire & Heist is definitely a new favorite. I love a good heist plot, and this one is executed fabulously. As with her other books, Durst keeps you on your toes and throws in some of the most delightful and unexpected twists throughout the book.
For starters, this is set in a world much like our own … except wyverns (aka were-dragons) are a real thing, and they’re obsessed with gold and treasure. I loved the combination of contemporary setting with fantasy; it’s something Durst does very well, and it shows throughout Fire & Heist.
Sky, her rambunctious older brothers, her fantasy-obsessed (newish) best friend, and her lovesick ex-boyfriend are such fantastic characters — and they help really make the book entertaining and delightful. As much as this is a fantasy, action-packed heist saga, it also provides plenty of laughs — and those funny moments come as a result of the wonderful characters.
Fire & Heist is the perfect standalone fantasy caper; it’s got plenty to sink your teeth into, with a satisfying conclusion — plus fabulous characters and a too cute romance. Look for it in stores December 4th.
Novel Novice 
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