BookBrowse Reviews Nightbirds by Kate J. Armstrong

In Nightbirds, Kate J. Armstrong introduces seemingly disparate characters with predictably clashing temperaments. Sayer, Æsa and Matilde are teenage girls who come from different areas of the Eudean Republic, representing the criminal underworld of Gryffin, the rural shorelines of Illan and the glittering elitism of Simta. They would never have crossed paths if not for the hidden abilities that have brought them together as the Nightbirds — a service that utilizes the girls' magic for wealthy Simta patrons willing to pay the price.

While this practice has been in place for years, growing backlash from Eudea's religious sect against the black market use of magic, as well as political clashes over power, threaten the established order. The main characters must grow up quickly to realize that some of what they have been taught about this order was merely a facade —...