February 2016 Debut of the Month Smart-talking, sharpshooting Amani Al’Hiza is desperate to flee dead-end Dustwalk to make a better life for herself. While her prospects seem pretty much limited to being married off, the arrival of an enigmatic stranger presents Amani with an opportunity to escape. But their journey across the desert plains is fraught with multiple perils, from the ruthless Sultan’s army, to the menace of mystical beasts.
This rollicking romp of a debut, the first in a trilogy, is an intoxicating blend of steam punk-esque Western and Arabian epic. It’s a richly-evoked, action-packed tale of rebellion, revolution, romance and djinni magic, driven by drama and a cast of vividly realised characters. Saddle up and prepare for an unforgettably entertaining ride. ~ Joanne Owen
A Piece of Passion from Alice Swan, Commissioning Editor Dear reader, You have in your hands the hottest YA debut of 2016. Imagine the scene: the Faber office was winding down for Christmas. I was mostly eating mince pies and desk tidying and finishing off those last bits and pieces before the break. And then I read Rebel of the Sands. Suddenly I was bursting with energy. We had to publish this book! The team read it, and then word spread and suddenly the whole company were demanding a look and I was getting glowing feedback, from the Managing Director to the Finance Director! We were whisked into the frenzy of a fiercely contested worldwide auction. We were determined that we would win. We would do anything it took . . .
So what makes Rebel of the Sands so exceptional? Part Western, part Arabian Nights, this is the most original, genre-busting YA novel I have ever read. The writing is so compelling, the action so edge-of-your-seat exciting that you are swept deeply into a world of sharpshooters, train robberies, festivals under the stars and dazzling djinni magic. It’s a story so rich in plot, character and description that it feels like a feast.
Read, enjoy and then join me in spreading the word about a sensational new author and a phenomenal story. JOIN THE REBELLION!
Tell us what you think: #rebelsands @faberchildrens
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