An heiress and an outlaw must team up in a neon-drenched city to outwit a monstrous AI and save the heiress's sister, facing dangerous conflicts and betrayals along the way. The fast-paced sci-fi story features a bisexual love triangle, vibrant cyberpunk world-building, and a found family dynamic, offering a unique and action-packed read.

"City of Shattered Light" is a dazzling and electrifying debut novel by Claire Winn that beautifully blends heart-pounding action, complex characters, and immersive worldbuilding in an unforgettable cyberpunk adventure. This YA sci-fi gem follows heiress Asa Almeida and outlaw Riven Hawthorne as they form an unlikely alliance to save Asa's sister and the neon-drenched outlaw paradise of Requiem from a vicious AI on the loose.

One of the greatest strengths of the novel is Winn's vivid, vibrant worldbuilding. The setting spans multiple distinct planets, from the crisp, elite tech empire of Cortellion to the colorful, ruthless streets of Requiem. Winn brings each location to life with lush, evocative descriptions that pull you right into the story. From shiny labs to pulsing night clubs to run-down alleys, the sense of place is incredibly immersive. The futuristic world is teeming with creative and fascinating details and technology.

The plot moves at a breakneck pace, packed with twists, betrayals, and non-stop thrilling action. Winn keeps the tension high and the pages turning with an engaging storyline as Asa and Riven race to stop the deadly AI and save Asa's sister. The stakes feel real and the obstacles monumental. While having familiar cyberpunk elements, the story still feels fresh and original.

At the heart of the novel are the well-developed characters of Asa and Riven. Asa's transformation from a naive heiress trying to prove herself to a determined, resourceful fighter is compelling. Riven is the perfect foil - a mysterious, gun-slinging smuggler who hides a fierce, protective heart under her prickly exterior. Watching their slow-burn friendship develop is a joy. The side characters, especially Ty, round out a likable crew that starts to feel like found family.

Thematically, "City of Shattered Light" thoughtfully explores heavy topics like loss, survival, guilt and becoming your truest self under immense pressure. There are some dark moments, but also bright spots of hope, resilience and the power of human connection. The uplifting message about surrounding yourself with the right people who push you to be better shines through.

Representation is another highlight, with a normalized queer romance, a bisexual love triangle between the two female leads, and diversity among the cast. The romance remains a side plot to the main action, but adds welcome shots of emotion and yearning.

While not perfect, with some side characters that could have been fleshed out more, "City of Shattered Light" is still a standout debut. Claire Winn has crafted a pulse-pounding, visually stunning story full of heart and grit. The ending provides satisfying closure while leaving the door open for more adventures with Asa, Riven and the crew in this captivating world. YA sci-fi and cyberpunk fans will not want to miss this dazzling, high-octane joyride through a perilous and brightly imagined future. One of the most entertaining, impressive debuts of the year.