Tim Susman’s The Price of Thorns is the journey of Nivali “Nivvy” al-Tamsin. Nivvy is an independent thief strapped to a spinning wheel after being caught stealing jewelry. A woman in a dirty and outdated red dress approaches him. Bella claims she is looking for a thief to steal a kingdom. After releasing him, Bella tells Nivvy to steal two horses; however, Nivvy already owns a horse and only takes some items from another person’s pack. Nivvy offers for Bella to ride behind him on his horse, which she finally agrees to after complaining about his filthy clothing. The pair starts their journey for Bella to reclaim her throne. Along the way, Nivvy befriends a former human hawk, is turned into a weasel, and learns how power can corrupt anyone.

Tim Susman divides this fantasy tale into five sections with intriguing chapter headings. Through each chapter, Nivvy faces making decisions that cause him inner turmoil. While in the form of a weasel, he is determined to find a way to prove he is still a valuable asset. Zein, a young hawk, teaches Nivvy the value of friendship. Zein believes Nivvy can accomplish his dreams and is often the voice of reason. The vivid details of the characters matched their engaging dialogue, making them easy to picture. The description of Nivvy’s journey adds a feeling of realistic travel while not slowing down the flow of the unpredictable plot. Several moments add humor to the story. One example is Nivvy’s peculiar encounter with Frankh. Frankh’s idea of harmony requires the local wildlife to eat his food, which contains plants, causing a high feeling. The stories each character shares are included at the end of the book. I found it interesting how well they convey the messages Nivvy learns. The Price of Thorns will appeal to fantasy readers who enjoy magical stories with intricate plots.

The Price of Thorns by Tim Susman is a tale where secrets are the clandestine currency that can either elevate or condemn. Nivvy, a wily thief with a past shrouded in the enigmatic Thieves Guild, finds himself at the center of a web of intrigue when Bella, a woman cloaked in mystery and the echoes of ancient lore, entices him with a seemingly impossible theft: to reclaim a kingdom she insists is rightfully hers. As Nivvy embarks on this epic heist, the promise of redemption within the Thieves Guild beckons, dangling the prospect of his return to glory. However, the shadows of Bella's secrets cast doubt on the true nature of her quest. What initially appears as a straightforward task unravels into a daunting adventure.

The Price of Thorns by Tim Susman is a spellbinding fantasy epic that takes readers on a journey through a meticulously crafted world filled with magic, intrigue, and complex characters. Set against the backdrop of a realm brimming with mythical creatures and political machinations, Susman weaves a tale that combines elements of adventure, romance, and high-stakes drama. The dynamic between Nivvy and Bella, each with their secrets, adds layers of complexity to the narrative. The reader is taken on a rollercoaster of revelations and betrayals as the unlikely duo navigates treacherous landscapes and confronts mythical forces. The Price of Thorns is a triumph in fantasy literature, showcasing the author's talent for world-building, character development, and storytelling. With its immersive setting, compelling characters, and a plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat, this novel is a must-read for fans of epic fantasy.