Starred Review Arabian Nights meets the Wild West in this thrilling debut novel. Amani can't wait to escape her small desert town. She knows she's meant for more, and she's counting on her sharpshooting skills to help her find a way out of Dustwalk. When she meets the mysterious Jin, a charming foreigner who is wanted for treason, she decides he can be her escape. Amani ends up on an exciting journey where mythical beasts rise, djinni wield magical powers, and the sultan's army is on the hunt. As whispers of a rebel prince start echoing through Miraji, Amani finds herself unexpectedly caught up in a revolution; but, once within it, she discovers more about herself than she ever imagined. This atmospheric fantasy combines magic, mythology, and the Wild West to create a riveting tale. Amani is a strong heroine who is witty and willful. The supporting cast of characters is well drawn, and the story is full of surprising twists that will leave readers satisfied yet still eager for a sequel. Although many familiar tales echo within its pages, this is an exciting, romantic adventure that is all its own.

Amani was born in Dustwalk, a small town in the desert country of Miraji. She hopes to flee to the capital because if she does not get out, she will be married off by her uncle to the highestor onlybidder. In an attempt to win a sharp shooting prize to facilitate her escape, Amani meets Jin, a foreigner who is wanted by the Sultan's army. After a fire and a chase, she hides him and they leave Dustwalk together on a mythical horse. Amani learns along the way that Jin is wanted for treason, that the city of her dreams may not be all she hopes, and that perhaps she is destined for something more.This fantasy reads like a perfect combination of American Westerns and Arabian myths, a unique blend that is the story's biggest strength. The heroine and hero have great banter, which serves to quickly develop their true romantic feelings. Amani's talent with a gun and drive to take control of her life make her a truly likable character despite her flaws. If the story lacks anything, it is originality in the typical "teen learns she has powers and may be the key to saving the land" trope. The novel's ending is solid, and a sequel appears to be in the midst. Fans of Sarah Maas and Victoria Aveyard should give this one a try.Deena Viviani.Amidst the hot sands of the tempestuous desert, Amani is determined to escape from her small town and make it to the city, where life prospers. However, when she meets Jin, her plan is thrown completely off course. Amani begins to learn that all is not what it seems in the desert. Teaming with action, wicked magic, and vivid characters, this novel will leave fantasy fans begging for more. 5Q, 4P.Maia Raynor, Teen Reviewer.