Retribution Falls (Tales of the Ketty Jay, #1)

In *Retribution Falls*, Darian Frey, captain of the beleaguered airship *Ketty Jay*, is far from a seasoned sky pirate. His crew, a collection of individuals harboring deep secrets and painful pasts – including a daemonist in hiding, a navigator with a dangerous secret, and a disgraced doctor – are as much a liability as they are an asset. Driven by desperation for a better life, Frey seizes what he believes to be a simple opportunity to steal a chest of gems. However, this ill-fated raid plunges them into a deadly game of cat and mouse, marking Frey as the most wanted man in Vardia, pursued by ruthless bounty hunters, the formidable Century Knights, and the notorious Trinica Dracken. The crew finds themselves ensnared in a conspiracy, their only hope for survival potentially lying in the mythical hidden pirate haven of Retribution Falls, a destination they must reach before the skies claim them. This novel rightfully earns its place among Chris Wooding's best works for its masterful blend of adventure, dark humor, and compelling character development. Wooding crafts a richly imagined steampunk world filled with thrilling aerial combat and the constant threat of discovery. The narrative crackles with energy, driven by the desperate plight of Frey and his crew, each member a well-drawn individual whose personal struggles add depth to the high-stakes plot. *Retribution Falls* showcases Wooding's talent for creating engaging, morally ambiguous protagonists and his ability to weave a complex, fast-paced story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, cementing his reputation as a standout author in the genre.