What do you think?
Rate this book
Thief of the Heights
Enter the world of Muqadas, where the climb to the top of this vertically stacked city—away from disease-ridden waters of the lower levels—is paved with betrayal, secrets, and rebellion in this debut graphic novel from author Son M. and artist Robin Yao.
Lifelong friends Basem, Mustafa, and Aarfah have carved out a place for themselves in their corner of Muqadas, where they dream of climbing from their place in the city’s lowest level, above the limb-snatching, disease-infested waters, to the very top of their vertical city. Young inventors who’ve seen firsthand the havoc the Habar infection causes set out to dazzle the masses with their innovative prosthetics and escape the dangers of Lake Saha.
When their inventions catch the eye of a scout who is on the hunt for new talent to bring to the higher tiers, their dreams are suddenly within reach. But as the wonders of the upper tiers enchant, Basem, Mustafa, and Aarfah begin to question why the bounty of Muqadas falls short of reaching Lake Saha's inhabitants.
Behind the beauty of the city's upper tiers lie dark and dangerous secrets—ones that threaten not only everything they’ve worked for but everyone they love. And when Mustafa and Aarfah are cast away for their allegiance to Lake Saha, Basem is faced with the difficult choice: Fight to bring justice to all of Muqadas? Or abandon his friends and fall in line to achieve everything he’s ever dreamed of?
Lifelong friends Basem, Mustafa, and Aarfah have carved out a place for themselves in their corner of Muqadas, where they dream of climbing from their place in the city’s lowest level, above the limb-snatching, disease-infested waters, to the very top of their vertical city. Young inventors who’ve seen firsthand the havoc the Habar infection causes set out to dazzle the masses with their innovative prosthetics and escape the dangers of Lake Saha.
When their inventions catch the eye of a scout who is on the hunt for new talent to bring to the higher tiers, their dreams are suddenly within reach. But as the wonders of the upper tiers enchant, Basem, Mustafa, and Aarfah begin to question why the bounty of Muqadas falls short of reaching Lake Saha's inhabitants.
Behind the beauty of the city's upper tiers lie dark and dangerous secrets—ones that threaten not only everything they’ve worked for but everyone they love. And when Mustafa and Aarfah are cast away for their allegiance to Lake Saha, Basem is faced with the difficult choice: Fight to bring justice to all of Muqadas? Or abandon his friends and fall in line to achieve everything he’s ever dreamed of?
240 pages, Paperback
First published October 22, 2024
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
September 1, 2024
Thank you, NetGalley for this advanced reader's copy of Thief of the Heights by Son M.!
This was a complex fantasy graphic novel about three teens trying to change their world for the better. I enjoyed the characters and their dynamic with one another. It was sweet to see their connection and their loyalty when the need for sacrifices arose.
The main thing I had a struggle with was the world building & overall conflict. I found it hard to follow sometimes and had to reread a few pages to fully comprehend what was going on. The resolve at the end felt a bit rushed to me. I liked the very ending, and being able to see what became of our characters.
Overall a solid story! Would recommend it if you're looking for an action-packed, fantasy read!
3⭐️ (solid read)
This was a complex fantasy graphic novel about three teens trying to change their world for the better. I enjoyed the characters and their dynamic with one another. It was sweet to see their connection and their loyalty when the need for sacrifices arose.
The main thing I had a struggle with was the world building & overall conflict. I found it hard to follow sometimes and had to reread a few pages to fully comprehend what was going on. The resolve at the end felt a bit rushed to me. I liked the very ending, and being able to see what became of our characters.
Overall a solid story! Would recommend it if you're looking for an action-packed, fantasy read!
3⭐️ (solid read)
November 2, 2024
This YA dystopian graphic novel breaks no new ground.
I liked the diversity rep and worldbuilding. It's a quick read with a slow buildup, which made the ending feel rushed and abrupt.
I liked the diversity rep and worldbuilding. It's a quick read with a slow buildup, which made the ending feel rushed and abrupt.
October 11, 2024
Yay for NetGalley letting me read this. This work was so well paced and compiled. The art was beautiful, and the story, a revolution well fought. Graphics are so often lacking in cohesive plot or compelling characters, this is not lacking. Some reviews below state frustration in a lack of exploration of the world—but everything that you need is given to you. It’s richly atmospheric and establishes the conflicts of each level of the heights clearly. There’s some reliance on trope, the elite in excess living off of the efforts of the very best of those who are held back by the circumstances of below. But the turning point and the climax of this piece made me gasp.
Well done. I’d love to see a 12ep adaptation animated some day.
Well done. I’d love to see a 12ep adaptation animated some day.
November 5, 2024
Thank you to Harper360YA for sending me an e-ARC of this graphic novel in exchange for an honest review.
Warning for vague spoilers ahead:
I went into this book having forgotten what it was about, but still wanting to read it knowing nothing. However, it didn’t mean that I struggled to understand the themes and story being explored in this graphic novel. The book follows three inventors/engineers from the lowest tier of their society, one of whom has lost both her legs due to a disease spread through the bacteria-riddled waters. Another we later find out has also contracted that same disease on his hand and is struggling with accepting what will happen to him, regardless of when he decides to do or say anything about it. The three friends all share a dream to help their community through their creations, but one in particular wants to rise through to the higher tiers of their society to reach the top. Whilst his ambition comes from a good place, it causes him to become blind to what is really happening around him and how much he’s losing himself in the process of ascending. This graphic novel discusses themes of class, wealth, greed - in terms of wealth, resources etc - and revolution which you see slowly building up in the background. I wasn’t able to give this 5 stars as I do think the revolution plot could have been built up over a few more chapters to give the story a better and much more satisfying ending. Perhaps even have a certain protagonist learn about it and then give him more time to think about what he truly wants for himself and his community/people back down below before acting so that the pay-off at the end is once again more satisfying to read. I do think a longer book would have helped strengthen the way in which the story was told. There was also a weird mix-up with the pages at one point in which a page appeared twice, once earlier than it was meant to and subsequently breaking up a scene and confusing the reader, then in its rightful place. I really enjoyed the art style, it was so vibrant and the use of colours really helped distinguish the different levels our protagonists inhabit as they ascend bit by bit.
Warning for vague spoilers ahead:
I went into this book having forgotten what it was about, but still wanting to read it knowing nothing. However, it didn’t mean that I struggled to understand the themes and story being explored in this graphic novel. The book follows three inventors/engineers from the lowest tier of their society, one of whom has lost both her legs due to a disease spread through the bacteria-riddled waters. Another we later find out has also contracted that same disease on his hand and is struggling with accepting what will happen to him, regardless of when he decides to do or say anything about it. The three friends all share a dream to help their community through their creations, but one in particular wants to rise through to the higher tiers of their society to reach the top. Whilst his ambition comes from a good place, it causes him to become blind to what is really happening around him and how much he’s losing himself in the process of ascending. This graphic novel discusses themes of class, wealth, greed - in terms of wealth, resources etc - and revolution which you see slowly building up in the background. I wasn’t able to give this 5 stars as I do think the revolution plot could have been built up over a few more chapters to give the story a better and much more satisfying ending. Perhaps even have a certain protagonist learn about it and then give him more time to think about what he truly wants for himself and his community/people back down below before acting so that the pay-off at the end is once again more satisfying to read. I do think a longer book would have helped strengthen the way in which the story was told. There was also a weird mix-up with the pages at one point in which a page appeared twice, once earlier than it was meant to and subsequently breaking up a scene and confusing the reader, then in its rightful place. I really enjoyed the art style, it was so vibrant and the use of colours really helped distinguish the different levels our protagonists inhabit as they ascend bit by bit.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2024
Enter the world of Muqadas, where the climb to the top of this vertically stacked city—away from disease-ridden waters of the lower levels—is paved with betrayal, secrets, and rebellion.
The trio, Basem, Mustafa and Aarfah have made a living in their corner of Muqadas. Helping those around them to create prosthetics. Their goal is to climb their way out of the cities lowest level and make a well living. Their inventions catch the eye of a scout who is on the look out for new talent and help them rise to a higher tier. Their dreams seem to be coming true but is it too good to be true?
I really enjoyed the art style and I loved the representation in this graphic novel. The plot was very interesting and I really enjoyed how it developed. I do wish we had more expansion on the relationship between Basem & Mustafa. I did find the text in the speech bubbles a little difficult to read down to the font style but I believe that's a personal preference.
I feel the class issues was portrayed quite well and I liked how it had a Middle Eastern influence. The portrayal of disabilities I feel was well done too. I do feel the ending was a little rushed and I would have liked to see the aftermath of the ending.
The trio, Basem, Mustafa and Aarfah have made a living in their corner of Muqadas. Helping those around them to create prosthetics. Their goal is to climb their way out of the cities lowest level and make a well living. Their inventions catch the eye of a scout who is on the look out for new talent and help them rise to a higher tier. Their dreams seem to be coming true but is it too good to be true?
I really enjoyed the art style and I loved the representation in this graphic novel. The plot was very interesting and I really enjoyed how it developed. I do wish we had more expansion on the relationship between Basem & Mustafa. I did find the text in the speech bubbles a little difficult to read down to the font style but I believe that's a personal preference.
I feel the class issues was portrayed quite well and I liked how it had a Middle Eastern influence. The portrayal of disabilities I feel was well done too. I do feel the ending was a little rushed and I would have liked to see the aftermath of the ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
October 25, 2024Graded By: Mandy C.
Cover Story: Look Up
BFF Charms: Eventually x3
Swoonworthy Scale: 3
Talky Talk: Revolution
Arty Art: Levels
Bonus Factor: Disability Representation
Relationship Status: Let’s Hang
Read the full book report here.
Cover Story: Look Up
BFF Charms: Eventually x3
Swoonworthy Scale: 3
Talky Talk: Revolution
Arty Art: Levels
Bonus Factor: Disability Representation
Relationship Status: Let’s Hang
Read the full book report here.
November 10, 2024
Intriguing concept but the world building was a bit too rushed and failed to be immersive. I appreciated the themes in the story but felt it needed more time to fully develop and depict them, as it felt rather rushed by the end.
November 7, 2024
Dense world building, that doesn't actually leave space for the dramatic climax. This probably could have been a duology, to allow the uprising at the end to take up more than a handful of pages.
October 22, 2024
Dystopian science fiction. Good solid story for a graphic novel. The three youths are sympathetic and likable characters with a real feeling friendship. I’d definitely read another book by this person if they did another science fiction or fantasy book
October 30, 2024
Son's writing and Robin's art are a match made in comic heaven.
The level of detail brought to this world and script is absolutely spectacular. You can feel the difference in the social classes and environment as the trio moves throughout the city, with the colors and patterns becoming brighter and bolder as they move up the (literal) social ladder. The desperation to survive versus the desire to make a tangible difference in one's community is repeatedly brought to the forefront as more truths about how their world actually works is revealed. And the love among the trio, both romantic and platonic, feels so natural and endearing in the small acts they do for each other.
-----SPOILERS!-----
I truly empathized with each of the protagonists, which can sometimes be difficult to master when juggling with ensemble casts: I felt the pragmatic Aarfah's frustration when she had to have her legs amputated, I felt the anxiety dutiful Mustafa felt at having to hide his own contraction of Habar, I hoped alongside Basem's blinding optimism that they truly could make a difference if they ascended to the top of the social hierarchy. They all share the same dream, but they come from slightly different perspectives that lead to conflict but also wholistic resolutions.
Also, I loved the use of a nazar as a LITERAL means to destroy the evil "eyes" of the surveillance systems oppressing the lower levels. It's such a fun, but earnest nod to Son's muslim background, and just an overall brilliant plot device. It's something that someone who is unfamiliar with a nazar's purpose may not fully appreciate but can understand its use in the story, while someone who IS familiar can feel that sense of foreshadowing and subsequent glee when it finally gets revealed later on.
My main critique of this book is that I wish I had more of it! It EASILY could have made for a solid duology or trilogy with how much of the world was alluded to. As a multi-level city, with the social classes and wealth literally exhibiting a trickle-down system, I could have spent an entire book exploring each level. Especially with the reveal that the trio's serendipitous ascension was a part of a greater liberation movement, I would have loved to see how others had failed and made it more urgent that these three break that cycle.
Overall, this book had me gripped from beginning to end, and I loved every minute of it! I can't wait to see what else Son and Robin create, individually or together.
The level of detail brought to this world and script is absolutely spectacular. You can feel the difference in the social classes and environment as the trio moves throughout the city, with the colors and patterns becoming brighter and bolder as they move up the (literal) social ladder. The desperation to survive versus the desire to make a tangible difference in one's community is repeatedly brought to the forefront as more truths about how their world actually works is revealed. And the love among the trio, both romantic and platonic, feels so natural and endearing in the small acts they do for each other.
-----SPOILERS!-----
I truly empathized with each of the protagonists, which can sometimes be difficult to master when juggling with ensemble casts: I felt the pragmatic Aarfah's frustration when she had to have her legs amputated, I felt the anxiety dutiful Mustafa felt at having to hide his own contraction of Habar, I hoped alongside Basem's blinding optimism that they truly could make a difference if they ascended to the top of the social hierarchy. They all share the same dream, but they come from slightly different perspectives that lead to conflict but also wholistic resolutions.
Also, I loved the use of a nazar as a LITERAL means to destroy the evil "eyes" of the surveillance systems oppressing the lower levels. It's such a fun, but earnest nod to Son's muslim background, and just an overall brilliant plot device. It's something that someone who is unfamiliar with a nazar's purpose may not fully appreciate but can understand its use in the story, while someone who IS familiar can feel that sense of foreshadowing and subsequent glee when it finally gets revealed later on.
My main critique of this book is that I wish I had more of it! It EASILY could have made for a solid duology or trilogy with how much of the world was alluded to. As a multi-level city, with the social classes and wealth literally exhibiting a trickle-down system, I could have spent an entire book exploring each level. Especially with the reveal that the trio's serendipitous ascension was a part of a greater liberation movement, I would have loved to see how others had failed and made it more urgent that these three break that cycle.
Overall, this book had me gripped from beginning to end, and I loved every minute of it! I can't wait to see what else Son and Robin create, individually or together.
Read
September 22, 2024Basem's dream has been to be a successful engineer with his boyfriend Mustafah, and friend Aarfah, He wants to leave the lowest caste and work his way up the ranks to live on the upper caste of a vertical city. He can have endless supplies for his projects, better lifestyle, and all the things that comes with it being high up in the ranks. But these high ranking lifestyle and the people are not what they seem...
I didn't get to read the book description of this graphic novel. I just went in head on. And what awaited me was a good story. I like how we get transported into a world of poverty but full of hope and promise. I thought they built a good job in reimagining a world that's already so familiar to us. And that familiarity makes this graphic novel nothing really new. It focuses on injustices and broken promises that is realistic. It was just a matter of making it something their own.
Becasue it's a graphic novel, you get to see the differences of the caste system in just one glance. But what trully makes it are the characters that were presented to us. More the minor character. The difference in attitude and the sense of entitlement, I also really love the colors that they used in the differences of the caste. It was thoughtful but also they made it obvious. The main characters though are diverse and I liked how they find their places in the story.
Story-wise, as I mentioned is nothing new. I'm not certain if this is a stand-alone graphic novel, but it felt that it left me hanging. The creators definitely focused on the main characters, their lives, and their relationships with one another.
Overall, it was a good read. But it didn't make me want to pursue further if there are more to this story.
*I received and eARC of this book
I didn't get to read the book description of this graphic novel. I just went in head on. And what awaited me was a good story. I like how we get transported into a world of poverty but full of hope and promise. I thought they built a good job in reimagining a world that's already so familiar to us. And that familiarity makes this graphic novel nothing really new. It focuses on injustices and broken promises that is realistic. It was just a matter of making it something their own.
Becasue it's a graphic novel, you get to see the differences of the caste system in just one glance. But what trully makes it are the characters that were presented to us. More the minor character. The difference in attitude and the sense of entitlement, I also really love the colors that they used in the differences of the caste. It was thoughtful but also they made it obvious. The main characters though are diverse and I liked how they find their places in the story.
Story-wise, as I mentioned is nothing new. I'm not certain if this is a stand-alone graphic novel, but it felt that it left me hanging. The creators definitely focused on the main characters, their lives, and their relationships with one another.
Overall, it was a good read. But it didn't make me want to pursue further if there are more to this story.
*I received and eARC of this book
May 19, 2024
*Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for providing an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review*
This is a story with a lot of potential, that has a lot of interesting world building but suffers from a lack of exploring that world. The plot focuses on a group of three friends living in the disease infested, lower levels of a city. Inventors looking to seek a way to the upper levels, the trio make prosthetics for those who lose limbs due to the Habar infection that eventually catches the eye of a scout that moves them to the upper levels. There they realize their world is not so straightforward and that society is much darker than they thought it could be. The plot was pretty easy to follow, but not super interesting once things started picking up. The art is fantastic and i love the character designs and the color schemes. This is a nice standalone, but i would've like more from it to make the plot pacing work better.
This is a story with a lot of potential, that has a lot of interesting world building but suffers from a lack of exploring that world. The plot focuses on a group of three friends living in the disease infested, lower levels of a city. Inventors looking to seek a way to the upper levels, the trio make prosthetics for those who lose limbs due to the Habar infection that eventually catches the eye of a scout that moves them to the upper levels. There they realize their world is not so straightforward and that society is much darker than they thought it could be. The plot was pretty easy to follow, but not super interesting once things started picking up. The art is fantastic and i love the character designs and the color schemes. This is a nice standalone, but i would've like more from it to make the plot pacing work better.
November 15, 2024
Solid four star. Loved the art just wish at times the scenes could have been longer especially with Mustafas arm and the disease I would have loved to see it develop slower and the process of removing it and coming up with his prosthetic slower. As well as Basem realizing this isn’t actually what he wants and it’s a lie but I also understand why he didn’t just wish I could have gotten more pages of the aftermath of when he did because the ending seemed a bit rushed. Finally I wish I could have seen more of Basem and Mustafas relationship develop, and their future in that as well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 13, 2024
This was a decent graphic novel. I didn’t find myself being really drawn into it or connecting with the characters that much.
The aspects of rich vs poor and the classism was poignant and is what really drove the story.
The whole rebellion aspect felt like it came in way too late in the book. And Basem’s motivations felt just… off.
The aspects of rich vs poor and the classism was poignant and is what really drove the story.
The whole rebellion aspect felt like it came in way too late in the book. And Basem’s motivations felt just… off.
October 25, 2024
Quick, punchy dystopian read. I didn't love the art, but the story was solid.
Check out my full review at Forever Young Adult.
Check out my full review at Forever Young Adult.
September 3, 2024
ARC from Netgalley.
November 8, 2024
The classism issues were portrayed very well. I also always love sci-fi prosthetics
November 9, 2024
I feel like this deserves a sequel, to deal with the revolution and the aftermath.
November 20, 2024
3.75/5
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews