Point of Knives

Scott returns to the intrigue-laden city of Astreiant in this novella, which bridges the gap between 1995’s Point of Hopes and 2001’s Point of Dreams. Adjunct Point Nicolas Rathe, peacekeeper and investigator, is summoned to the site of the bizarre murder of a father and son, both reputed to be pirates. He’s soon joined in the investigation by his ex-lover, Philip Eslingen, who now works for a prominent crime lord who had an interest in one of the dead men. While Rathe and Eslingen rekindle their professional and romantic partnerships, they seek to unravel the mystery, which expands to include a chest full of gold and a woman with a forged claim to the goods. Primarily an intriguing pseudo-police procedural, this fantasy also serves as a satisfying romantic story, with strong world building and great characterization that will leave readers wanting more. Agent: Donald Maass, Donald Maass Literary Agency. (July)