The Falconer

In this debut novel, first in a trilogy, May brings to life a steampunk version of Victorian Scotland beset by vicious faeries. Young aristocratic Aileana Kameron has been training to hunt and kill these faeries for the past year, each one—she hopes—bringing her closer to the baobhan sìth that eviscerated her mother. She soon discovers that her bloodlust is no accident: she’s a Falconer, last in a legendary line of faerie hunters. With the most powerful faeries about to break loose from their prison, Aileana has only six days to learn to control her powers. There’s palpable sexual tension between Aileana and her faerie mentor, Kiaran; unfortunately he falls prey to many familiar tropes (he’s a semi-reformed killer who refuses to discuss his past, especially the loss of a past love very much like Aileana). Even so, fans of Gail Carriger’s work in particular should enjoy the combination of steampunk tech and supernatural danger with a multitalented heroine who can hold her against murderous faeries and romantic foils alike. Ages 14–up. Agent: Russell Galen, Scovil Galen Ghosh Literary Agency. (May)