Foundryside: A Novel (The Founders Trilogy Book 1)

"Foundryside" is the first book in a new fantasy series by Robert Jackson Bennett, published in August 2018. The story takes place in a world where objects can be "scrived," or imbued with magical inscriptions that give them unnatural properties.

The protagonist, Sancia Grado, is a skilled thief who is hired to steal a valuable artifact from a heavily guarded warehouse. However, as Sancia soon discovers, the object she has stolen is more than it appears, and she finds herself caught up in a dangerous game of politics and magic that threatens to upend the entire city of Tevanne.

"Foundryside" is a fast-paced and action-packed novel that blends elements of heist stories, political thrillers, and high fantasy. Bennett's world-building is inventive and immersive, and the scriving system that underpins the magic in the story is both fascinating and well thought out.

Sancia is a compelling and complex protagonist, and Bennett does an excellent job of exploring her backstory and motivations as the story unfolds. The supporting cast of characters is also well-drawn and memorable, from Sancia's unlikely allies to her ruthless enemies.

One of the strengths of "Foundryside" is Bennett's writing style, which is sharp and witty, with plenty of humor and clever turns of phrase. The dialogue is snappy and realistic, and the action scenes are expertly choreographed and full of tension.

Overall, "Foundryside" is a thrilling and entertaining read that will appeal to fans of both fantasy and heist stories. It's a promising start to what looks to be an exciting new series from a talented author.