Thoughtfully imaginative and action-packed, Steeplejack is New York Times bestselling A. J. Hartley's YA debut set in a 19th-century South African fantasy world

2017 Thriller Awards Winner for Best Young Adult
YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults Selection
Kirkus Reviews Best Teen Book
Booklist Top Ten YA in Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror


"A richly realized world, an intensely likable character, and a mystery to die for." -- Cory Doctorow, New York Times-bestselling author

Seventeen-year-old Anglet Sutonga lives and works as a steeplejack in Bar-Selehm, a sprawling city known for its great towers, spires, and smokestacks - and even greater social disparities across race and class.

Ang's world is turned upside-down when her new apprentice Berrit is murdered the same night that the city's landmark jewel is stolen. Her search for answers behind his death exposes unrest in the streets and powerful enemies. But she also finds help from unexpected friends: a kindhearted savannah herder, a politician's haughty sister, and a savvy newspaper girl. As troubles mount in Bar-Selehm, Ang must discover the truth behind both murder and theft soon - or else watch the city descend into chaos.