Kinfolk

If you enjoy flawed protagonists--like Maggie Stiefvater's Ronan Lynch of the Dreamer Trilogy, Ann Aguirre's Sirantha Jax, or Leigh Bardugo's Kaz Brekker from the Six of Crows books--then Kinfolk's Kin Hanford will make good company.

Set in The Realm of Reason, a universe reminiscent of James S.A. Corey's The Expanse books and/or show, Disney's "Treasure Planet," and the Star Wars extended universe novels from the 90s and 2000s, Kinfolk leans into hopepunk themes (think Becky Chambers, or Prachett and Gaiman's Good Omens) like resilience, chosen family, and the slow progress of personal growth.

Space pirates? Yup. Guns blazin' and ships phasin'? Absolutely. Excessive emotional baggage? Check.

Kin Hanford is a mess. His son despises him, his ex-wife wants to ruin him, and he can't seem to stay out of trouble. He loves his crew, the Damn Shames, but he's also selfish and childish. He can't stand the person he's become.

But when a mysterious map sends him and the Shames on a perilous chase across the galaxy, pursued by the ruthless and glamorous Tana Zaalis, Kin has to make a decision: will he risk everything to protect the people he cares about, or will he leave Cessie and Maude behind to save himself?

On his quest, Kin will face deadly creatures, treacherous foes, and his own inner demons—not to mention Tana, who has a twisted agenda of her own. He will learn what truly matters to him, and what he's willing to give up for it.

This science fiction adventure book is the first book in the trilogy A Mutiny of Pirates, inspired by the story of Treasure Island. Readers who enjoy stories about deeply flawed heroes, found families, and unusual worlds will find Kinfolk has what they're looking for. This isn't a typical action story, but a character-driven journey of growth and redemption—with a few gunfights and explosions for good measure.