Shield of Stars: The Shield, Sword, and Crown, Book One (review)

Weasel, a former pickpocket, has spent the last few years trying to forget his past and live up to the high expectations of his new boss, the Justice Holis. When they are both arrested for treason, Weasel makes his own escape, but he cannot ignore the debt he owes to his mentor and determines to return and save Holis from certain death. The bad news is that he only has fourteen days to breach an impenetrable prison; the good news is that he's made friends with the formidable Arisa, a mysterious girl whose murderous tactics belie her quiet demeanor. A larger political upheaval is underway, as various forces converge to drive out the current power-hungry regent, and Weasel realizes that Justice Holis may be more closely involved with the rebellion than he expected. The unstoppable Arisa may be enough to tip things in Weasel's favor, but he has also stumbled onto an ancient talisman, the shield of stars, desperately sought by many who want the respect given to the shield-bearer. Although this is the first installment of a trilogy, the book works equally well as a fast-paced and clever stand-alone novel; Bell masterfully ties up several plot threads while leaving plenty of room for the characters' new adventures. In fact, there is a dramatic turn of events where the Justice becomes the new regent, which means that Weasel's days of being poor are numbered. Although Weasel's ability to adapt to gold-plated luxury and the nuances of political life may be in question at the end of the book, readers will undoubtedly be reassured by the fact that his past work dealing with thieves and liars can only serve him well in his new role.