Description

From the author of The Disasters, this genre-bending YA fantasy heist story is perfect for fans of Marie Lu and Amie Kaufman.

In Kyrkarta, magic—known as maz—was once a freely available natural resource. Then an earthquake released a magical plague, killing thousands and opening the door for a greedy corporation to make maz a commodity that’s tightly controlled—and, of course, outrageously expensive.

Which is why Diz and her three best friends run a highly lucrative, highly illegal maz siphoning gig on the side. Their next job is supposed to be their last heist ever.

But when their plan turns up a powerful new strain of maz that (literally) blows up in their faces, they’re driven to unravel a conspiracy at the very center of the spellplague—and possibly save the world.

No pressure.

  • Cyberpunk Fantasy: In a world of magical tech, black-market spell-siphoning, and hackers who can steal more than just data, this crew is the best—until their luck runs out.
  • Conspiracy Thriller: When a new strain of magic literally blows up in their faces, Diz and her friends are thrown into a race to expose a plot that goes deeper than they ever imagined.
  • Queer Found Family: A snarky hacker, a rich-girl techwitch, a loyal protector, and a brilliant, spellplague-afflicted weaver. They’d do anything for each other—and they’re about to.
  • Corporate Dystopia: Magic is a commodity, controlled by the powerful MMC corporation. But this crew has been stealing it back for years. Now, they’ve stolen a secret that could get them all killed.

About the author(s)

M.K. England is an author and librarian who grew up on the Space Coast of Florida and now calls small-town rural Virginia home. When they're not writing or librarianing, M. K. can be found drowning in fandom, rolling dice at the Dungeons & Dragons table, digging in the garden, or feeding their video game addiction. They love Star Wars with a desperate, heedless passion. It’s best if you never speak of Sherlock Holmes in their presence. You’ll regret it. They are also the author of The Disasters. Visit them at www.mkengland.com.


Reviews

Praise for The Disasters: “This laugh-out-loud sci-fi action-adventure will leave readers wanting more.” - School Library Journal

“If humankind requires saving, then this is the crew to do it.” - Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

“Much to recommend: nonstop cinematic action, strong feminist messages, and great diversity of characters.” - ALA Booklist

“An action-packed, entertaining blend of space hijinks, humor, and romance.” - Kirkus Reviews

“An explosion of edge-of-your-seat twists and high-stakes danger that leaves you glued to the page and rooting for these lovable misfits. I wanted a snarky romp across the galaxy, and M.K. England delivered with the force of a supernova.” - Ashley Poston, author of Geekerella and Heart of Iron

“Fresh, inventive fun.” - Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

“A clever, cosmic thrill ride packed with nonstop action and starring a motley crew that won me over from page one. Just too much fun!” - Mackenzi Lee, New York Times bestselling author of A Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue

“Wildly entertaining and crackling with chemistry. Nax and his crew will crash land in your heart and leave you filled with laughter and hope.” - Kerri Maniscalco, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Escaping from Houdini

“A BLAST from start to finish! Absurd levels of fun, fantastic pacing, and lovable authentic characters bring this rollicking adventure to life. Looking for a book you can’t put down? Pick up The Disasters. Mission accomplished.” - Katherine Locke, author of The Girl with the Red Balloon (2018 Sydney Taylor Honor Book)

"Joyfully queer. Buckle in for this high-speed, bighearted sci-fi/fantasy adventure." - Kirkus Reviews

“A bold and futuristic thrill ride with a dazzling blend of magic, mayhem, friendship, and heart.” - Jess Rothenberg, author of The Kingdom

“A humorous mix of SF and fantasy with a diverse cast of strong personalities … [and] action that carries on right to the end.” - Booklist

More by M. K. England

More Fantasy

More Young Adult Fiction

More Science Fiction

More LGBTQ+

More Action & Adventure

More School & Education

More LGBTQ+

More Romance

More Romance

More Disabilities & Special Needs

More Coming of Age

More Girls & Women