Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

No Heart for a Thief is a work of fiction in the epic fantasy, dark adventure, action, and suspense subgenres, and forms the opening book of the Malitu series. The work is best suited to mature readers owing to scenes of violence, including violence against children, as well as explicit language and other adult themes throughout. Penned by author James Lloyd Dulin, this captivating tale revolves around Kaylo, who possesses the ability to hear the song of other people's magic. As he grapples with this newfound power, he must navigate the complexities of his people's history of abusing their magical abilities and the looming threat of the Gousht Empire. The narrative unfolds with Kaylo's encounter with Tayen, a girl pursued by soldiers from the empire, leading to a fateful decision that intertwines their fates.

Author James Lloyd Dulin has crafted a truly compelling narrative rich in world-building, character development, and thematic depth, and I, for one, couldn’t get enough of this immersive dark fantasy setting. The plot is deeply entrenched in this well-built world, exploring themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the consequences of one's actions through the interesting, interconnected systems and power dynamics that Dulin so realistically develops. The emotional arc for Kaylo is paced well and closely narrated to give us deep insight into his psychology as he comes to terms with his powers and prospective future, resulting in a journey of self-discovery and redemption whilst navigating the treacherous landscape of magic and politics. Overall, No Heart for a Thief is a compelling blend of fantasy and adventure, offering readers an immersive and thought-provoking experience. I would not hesitate to recommend it, and I can’t wait to see what more the series brings us.